Teething Baby: Five Things You Need To Know To Help

Teething is one of the most difficult parts of your baby’s first year, and it is often very trying for parents, too. Your baby will likely be fussy and irritable during this time. A fever and decreased appetite might also occur while your little one is teething. While you might feel helpless at times, know that you can help your baby. Here are five things you need to know to help:

Ready or not, here they come!

Is your baby unusually cranky? Have a peek at those gums. The first tooth might appear around three months or anytime afterwards. According to cleaning dentist Joel E. Rothman, your baby’s first dental exam should be scheduled once the first tooth emerges. Your baby will get a simple exam and cleaning at this appointment.

There will be discomfort

You need to know that your baby could have a variety of discomforts while teething. Excessive drooling is often the first symptom that parents notice. Sleeping problems are common, as are gum swelling and sensitivity. Ask your doctor about using a pain reliever, such as Tylenol.

Fever can happen

A fever of up to 101 degrees can happen when your baby is teething. Some people think this is because of gum swelling, but no one knows the true cause. Ask your doctor about using a fever reducer when your baby is teething. If your baby has a fever above 101 degrees, call your doctor.

Nursing is great

Don’t stop breastfeeding when your baby’s teeth start coming in. The comfort you’ve provided your baby through nursing is especially important now, and those antibodies are still needed. Even if your baby has shown biting behavior, which is common during teething, you aren’t likely to be bitten! If baby does nip you, just let him or her know that’s a no-no.

Baby needs to chomp

As mentioned above, your baby will likely have the urge to chew on things as those first teeth are emerging. This is a perfectly normal behavior, and your baby will get relief from chewing. Try giving your little one a teething ring, a clean finger, a toothbrush, a frozen washcloth or stuffed toy to gnaw on. If your baby spits one thing out, try another.

Once it begins, teething can happen on and off for a year or more. While it can be stressful for you and baby at times, you can help sooth your baby by remembering the five things listed above. Remember, your little one might be hurting and otherwise not feeling well. Provide your little one with dental care, comfort and plenty of things to chew on to help make teething an easier time for you both!