Watching your baby struggle with teething can be heartbreaking. As a parent, you naturally want to do everything you can to soothe their discomfort. Fortunately, there are many ways to help your teething baby feel better.
What is Teething?
Teething is the process by which a baby's teeth erupt through their gums. This usually begins around six months of age, although some babies may start as early as four months or as late as one year. The two bottom front teeth are typically the first to appear, followed by the top front teeth.
While teething is a normal part of development, it can be uncomfortable for babies. Symptoms may include:
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Drooling
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Irritability
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Gnawing on objects
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Red, swollen gums
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Mild fever
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Difficulty sleeping
How to Soothe a Teething Baby
There are several things you can do to help your teething baby feel better:
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Gum Massage: Gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger or a wet washcloth. The pressure can help to relieve discomfort.
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Cool Objects: Offer your baby a cool, wet washcloth or a teething ring to chew on. The coolness can help to numb the gums.
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Teething Toys: There are many different types of teething toys available. Look for ones that are made of safe materials and that are easy for your baby to hold.
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Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: If your baby is in a lot of pain, you can give them an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, be sure to talk to your pediatrician first, especially if your baby is under six months old.
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Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to your baby's cheek to help reduce swelling.
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Distraction: Sometimes the best way to help a teething baby is to distract them. Play with them, sing to them, or read them a story.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, teething is not a cause for concern. However, you should see a doctor if your baby has any of the following symptoms:
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A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
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Diarrhea or vomiting
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Difficulty breathing
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Bleeding gums
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Signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, sunken eyes, or decreased urination
Tips for Parents
Here are a few additional tips for parents of teething babies:
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Be patient. Teething can be a long process, so be patient with your baby.
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Don't give your baby hard or sharp objects to chew on.
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Avoid giving your baby teething necklaces or bracelets. These can be a choking hazard.
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Don't put medication on your baby's gums. This can be harmful.
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Talk to your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby's teething.
By following these tips, you can help your teething baby feel better and make this stage of development a little easier for everyone.
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Watching your baby struggle with teething can be heartbreaking. As a parent, you naturally want to do everything you can to soothe their discomfort. Fortunately, there are many ways to help your teething baby feel better.