Has your normally happy baby suddenly turned grumpy? Been waking up early from his nap? Drooling more than normal? You may have a teether on your hands. Here’s what to look for and tips to soothe those sore gums.
Tooth Timing
Most babies begin to get their first tooth between 4 and 7 months, though there’s no reason to be concerned if your baby gets teeth earlier or later. Often the first to emerge are the middle bottom teeth called the lower central incisors. By the time your baby reaches her first birthday, she can have between 2 and 12 teeth!
Signs of Teething
Teething can have a range of symptoms that can often appear unrelated to a new tooth appearing. It’s easy to mistake these symptoms for another ailment or general babyhood – and sometimes they are! Some babies are very bothered by the teething process while others will suddenly pop out a tooth without any signs at all.
Here are some signs that may signal a new tooth.
- excessive drooling
- swollen/tender gums
- fussiness
- a desire to bite or chew on things
- trouble sleeping
- discomfort when bottle or breastfeeding (the pressure created from sucking can increase gum discomfort)
Note: Many parents report seeing a mild, low-grade fever or diarrhea when their child is teething, but the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stresses that fevers, diarrhea, and diaper rash are not common symptoms of teething and more likely point to a separate ailment such as an ear infection or flu. Contact your doctor if you child is exhibiting these symptoms.
How to Soothe a Teething Baby
If your baby is bothered by a new tooth emerging, there are lots of easy ways to offer some relief.
Try these home remedies before resorting to any drug store solutions.
- Massage your baby’s gums with your finger. The opposing pressure on her gums will help ease some of the discomfort.
- Give baby a pacifier to chew on.
- Wet a clean washcloth with cold water and let your baby gnaw on it.
- Provide a distraction from the discomfort with a new activity.
- Buy a teething ring or teether toys [http://www.peppyparents.com/servlet/the-Feeding-cln-Teethers-and-pacifiers/Categories].
- If your baby is old enough for solids, try some cold mashed fruits or veggies in a mesh feeder
Some parents swear by the effectiveness of over-the-counter teething medicines that provide temporary numbing and pain relief. However, in 2011 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that the active ingredient in many of these medicines (benzocaine) has been linked to a rare, but very serious condition called methemoglobinemia that can be fatal.
Four to Try: Best Baby Teethers
One less thing to carry: This Organic Blankie Cool Soothing Teether combines a small blanket with a detachable teething ring making it easy to grab all your important items at once.
Traditional, tried and true: The water-filled teether ring provides a cold textured surface for baby to bite during teething periods.
Eco-baby: The Natural Wood Baby Rattle Ring is made of baby-safe rubber wood and is just as fun to play with as it is to chew on. Plus it looks chic in your stroller.
No ordinary pacifier: The bumpy surface of the RaZ-Berry Silicone Teether helps soothe sore gums.