Teething may be the phenomenon that parents dread the most after hearing other parents, grandparents, and popular culture accounts of permanently fussy babies, crazy, non-scientific remedies (have you heard of the egg in the sock?), and misinformation. But luckily the process isn’t as mysterious as you might think. Here are answers to some common questions about teething:
1) When does teething start?
Most babies start teething at around 4 to 7 months, when the teeth are beginning to push through the gums. Some may start as early as 3 months, and some may start as late as 12 months. Be sure to ask your pediatrician if you have any questions about whether it’s time for your baby to teethe, or if you’re worried about your baby being delayed.
2) What are the common signs of teething in babies?
It’s hard not to attribute every symptom to teething in babies starting at around 4 months, but some signs are more common – and clear – than others. The biggies are excessive drooling and rubbing on the gums repeatedly with hands or toys. Other symptoms include swollen gums, fussiness, a mildly elevated temperature that’s not a fever, grabbing at an ear, or poor sleep. Of course, some babies won’t really show any symptoms.
3) When do the teeth typically emerge?
On average, the first tooth in babies emerges around 6 months old. This is almost always one of the central incisors (the small middle teeth) on the lower gums. This begins a continuous process that lasts for a few years, ending with the emergence of the second molars (those large teeth in the back) a little before 3 years of age. Check the chart for a helpful guide to timing.
4) How can I help relieve the pain?
Pressure and rubbing (aka what your baby is trying to do themselves by chewing on fingers and toys) is a great way to soothe the pain of teething. You can wash your hands and help rub and press on the affected area with a clean finger for temporary relief. Cold items, like teething rings that go in the refrigerator, are another great tool. Some moms like to freeze breastmilk or formula into popsicles, but these need supervision during use. If your baby seems especially uncomfortable, you can try an over-the-counter pain reliever like infant Tylenol. Consult your pediatrician about dosage and timing before using.
This area is where “don’ts” abound. Don’t follow grandma’s advice to dip a washcloth in whiskey. Don’t follow mom’s advice on using topical medicines with benzocaine or lidocaine, as these can be dangerous in babies. Don’t follow popular advice from peers to use teething necklaces, bracelets, or anklets as these items can break off or get twisted and pose a choking or strangulation hazard. Homeopathic or natural over-the-counter items are also not proven to help and are poorly regulated. Many have even been shown to contain harmful substances for babies.
5) When do I need to start brushing baby’s teeth?
You can start gently brushing with a soft-bristled baby toothbrush when the first tooth shows. Use a tiny dab of fluoride toothpaste no bigger than a grain of rice.
Your Coastal Kids practitioners are ready to help you get past the teething stage with peace of mind. Use the form to request an appointment and talk through the symptoms your little teether is having. We’ll have plenty of personalized tips and strategies to help you both feel a little more comfortable with the process.