Teething proves to be such an uncomfortable and distressing time for babies. This process typically begins around 6 months of age, but it can also start as early as 3 months or as late as 14 months as well. One of the hardest things about babies’ teething is the fact that they experience it differently and with varying levels of pain and stress. Therefore, it’s important that, as a parent, you should be able to recognize when your baby’s teeth start making its presence felt, in order to help ease their discomfort.
Symptoms
Do take note that the lower front teeth are usually the ones to appear first. The upper front teeth normally follow about 2 months after that, and within the next few months, the lower and upper lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and second molars also grow out as well.
The most noticeable symptoms and signs of teething are baby’s restlessness and fussiness due to the soreness and swelling of the gums. Because of this, there’s a growing need for babies to start gnawing on something that will provide a counter pressure relief against the tooth pushing out of their gums. Upon close inspection of the inside of their mouth, you’ll also find puffy and bulging gums, and you might even see the tooth underneath as well. Other behaviors related to teething include excessive drooling, grabbing of the ears, loss or drastic change in appetite, and irritability.
Remedies
While some babies don’t seem to be bothered by teething, some experience extreme pain and discomfort. One of the most common remedies done to help ease the baby’s discomfort is by using a clean finger or wrap it with a wet and frozen washcloth, and then proceed to gently rub a certain area of the gums for about 2 minutes. In order to provide a fun distraction for them during teething, you can also get them a toy teether—which are available here at Ideal Baby—that they can use to gnaw and bite on.