Watching your baby grow and reach new milestones is an incredible journey as a parent. One such milestone that all babies go through is teething – the process of their first teeth emerging through the gums. Teething can be challenging for both baby and parents, as it may cause discomfort and fussiness. As a parent, it’s essential to recognize the signs of baby teething to provide comfort and support to your little one during this phase. Here, we will explore how to identify if your baby is teething, offering simple and practical tips to make this stage smoother for you and your little bundle of joy.
Age for Teething to Begin
Teething begins around six months of age but can vary from one baby to another. Some babies may start teething as early as three months, while others may not experience teething until they are 12 months or older. Remember that every child is unique, with no fixed timeline for teething to start or end. Always try to consult with the best kids’ dentist in Dubai to identify and address your child’s teething concerns.
Common Signs That Your Baby is Teething
When your baby is teething, they might show some signs to let you know it’s happening.
- More Drooling: Teething can make them produce more saliva, leading to extra drooling.
- Chewing and Biting: To ease the discomfort, they might chew on their fingers, toys, or anything they can find.
- Irritability and Fussiness: Teething can be uncomfortable, making them more cranky and fussy.
- Swollen Gums: The area where their teeth come out might look red and swollen.
- Changes in Sleep and Eating: Teething can affect their sleep and appetite, causing disrupted sleep and changes in eating habits.
- Mild Body Temperature: Some babies may slightly increase their body temperature, but it’s usually not a high fever.
Teething Order
Knowing the usual teething order can help you anticipate which teeth will come first. Most babies’ first teeth are the lower front ones, followed by the upper front ones. Then come the side teeth, first molars, and canines. The second molars usually come out last.
Helpful Tips To Soothe Your Teething Baby
- Teething Toys
Babies like to chew to ease their sore gums. You can buy some soft teething toys made from safe materials and provide them comfort while teething.
- Cloth
Moisten a clean cloth with cool water and let your baby chew. The coolness can soothe their gums and provide more comfort to them. Make sure the cloth is clean to avoid any germs. You can also briefly chill the cloth in the fridge to make it more soothing.
- Gum Massages
Gently massage your baby’s gums with clean fingers. Use a gentle circular motion to ease their teething discomfort. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly before doing this.
- Refrigerated Teething Rings
Chilled teething rings are another great option for soothing your baby’s teething soreness. The coldness can numb their gums and provide relief. Don’t freeze them, though, as they may be too hard for your baby’s sensitive gums.
- Chilled Foods
If your baby eats solid foods, try peeled and chilled fruits like cucumber or watermelon. The coldness of these fruits can soothe their gums and be a tasty treat.
- Distraction
Play with your baby, read to them, or take them for a short walk to distract them from the discomfort. It can help your little one cope better with teething.
- Teething Gels
Check with the best Pediatric Dentist in Dubai before using teething gels. They can temporarily relieve the pain with a mild numbing agent.
- Comfort and Cuddles
You can give extra comfort and cuddles to your child to make him/her feel secure and ease the discomfort.
Remember, every baby is different, so try different methods to see what works best for your little one. Keep an eye on them during teething to ensure they are safe and comfortable. Search online for a children’s dentist near me and talk with your Pediatric Dentist for guidance and support if you have any concerns.
When your baby’s first tooth appears, it’s time to start practicing good oral hygiene. Clean your baby’s teeth and gums with a soft toothbrush or clean cloth. Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle, as it can lead to tooth decay. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor your baby’s oral health and ensure the proper development of their teeth.
Conclusion
Baby teething is a natural and exciting milestone in your little one’s growth, but it can also be challenging for you and your child. By recognizing the signs of teething and offering comfort and support, you can help ease your baby during this phase. Remember that every baby is different, and their teething journey will happen uniquely. Be patient, provide extra cuddles, and celebrate each new tooth that emerges. With love and care, you can make this teething stage a memorable part of your baby’s early years.
If you have concerns or questions about teething in your baby, it’s essential to seek advice from a qualified Pediatric Dentist in Dubai like Dr. Yasmin Kottait. Remember, seeking professional advice can help you confidently navigate this milestone and ensure your baby’s overall well-being during this stage. Consulting with the best dentist for kids specializing in child development can provide valuable insights and personalized guidance to ensure your baby’s teething process is as comfortable as possible. Dr. Yasmin can offer expert recommendations, answer your queries, and address any specific teething-related issues your baby may be experiencing.
About Dr. Yasmin Kottait:
Having dedicated 16 years of her career to spreading smiles and imparting knowledge of oral hygiene to children, Dr. Yasmin is a renowned name and face in the field of Pediatric Dentistry in Dubai. Her joyful personality and magical kid-whispering powers make dental appointments for kids an easy sail – and lots of fun, that they never miss a single dental appointment with her! Dr. Yasmin is also one of the few Autism friendly dentists in the region, with a diploma in Cognitive Based Hypnotherapy and IBCCES Autism certification.