Babies Start Teething and Safety: A Guide for Parents
When a baby's first teeth erupt, it marks a critical developmental milestone known as teething. Parents can better care for their child at this time by being aware of the teething timeline and knowing what to expect.
Teething Timeline:
0-3 Months:
- Teething Signs: Rarely, some babies show early signs of teething, such as increased drooling or slight irritability.
- Action: No teeth visible yet. Focus on providing comfort through cuddling and gentle massaging of the gums if signs appear.
4-7 Months:
- First Teeth: The first teeth, typically the lower central incisors, usually start to erupt around 6 months.
- Signs and Symptoms: Increased drooling, a tendency to chew on objects, irritability, and swollen gums.
- Action: Provide teething rings or cold washcloths to soothe gums. Ensure any teething toys are safe and free from harmful substances.
8-12 Months:
- Upper Incisors: The upper central and lateral incisors begin to come through.
- Signs and Symptoms: Similar to earlier stages but can be more pronounced. Babies may experience slight fever, disrupted sleep, and appetite changes.
- Action: Continue offering teething toys and cold items. Over-the-counter pain relievers or teething gels may be used, following a pediatrician’s advice.
12-18 Months:
- First Molars: The first molars start to appear.
- Signs and Symptoms: More intense discomfort due to the larger size of molars. Babies may pull at their ears or have more difficulty sleeping.
- Action: Maintain oral hygiene by gently brushing their emerging teeth. Offer plenty of fluids and soft foods.
18-24 Months:
- Canines: The canine teeth (also known as cuspids) start to come in.
- Signs and Symptoms: Persistent irritability and a strong desire to chew on objects.
- Action: Ensure continued oral care. Offer teething toys, cold foods, and drinks to soothe the gums.
24-30 Months:
- Second Molars: The second molars, the last set of baby teeth, start to erupt.
- Signs and Symptoms: This can be the most uncomfortable stage, as the second molars are the largest teeth.
- Action: Be patient and provide extra comfort. Keep up with oral hygiene practices, and consult a pediatric dentist if you have concerns.
Tips for Teething Relief:
- Teething Toys: Safe, BPA-free teething rings and toys can provide relief.
- Cold Compresses: Chilled (not frozen) washcloths or teething toys can help numb the gums.
- Oral Hygiene: Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears using a soft-bristled baby toothbrush.
- Pain Relievers: Consult a pediatrician before using any medications or teething gels.
- Comfort and Cuddles: Extra cuddles and attention can help soothe a teething baby.
Babies Teething Safety
It can be difficult for parents and babies to go through the teething process. It's vital to make sure your infant is protected during this time for their comfort and well-being. This is a thorough guide about teething safety:
1. Choosing Safe Teething Toys:
- Material: Opt for BPA-free, non-toxic, and phthalate-free materials. Silicone and rubber are popular and safe choices.
- Size and Shape: Ensure teething toys are large enough to prevent choking and have no small parts that could break off.
- Design: Avoid toys with liquid-filled chambers, as they can leak or break.
2. Teething Rings and Toys:
- Cold Relief: Chilled (not frozen) teething rings can soothe gums. Avoid freezing as it can be too hard and cause injury.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean teething toys with soap and water to prevent bacterial build-up.
3. Safe Home Remedies:
- Cold Cloths: Offer a chilled, clean washcloth for your baby to chew on.
- Breast Milk Popsicles: Freeze breast milk in small portions to create soothing popsicles.
- Chilled Foods: Offer cold, soft foods like yogurt or applesauce if your baby has started on solids.
4. Oral Hygiene:
- Gum Care: Before teeth emerge, gently wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings.
- Brushing: Once teeth appear, use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brush twice daily.
5. Medications and Remedies:
- Consult a Pediatrician: Always consult your pediatrician before using any over-the-counter pain relievers or teething gels.
- Avoid Benzocaine: The FDA advises against using benzocaine for children under 2 due to the risk of methemoglobinemia, a serious condition that reduces oxygen in the blood.
6. Preventing Choking Hazards:
- Monitor: Always supervise your baby while they are using teething toys or chewing on objects.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect toys for any signs of damage or wear and replace them if necessary.
7. Avoid Unsafe Teething Practices:
- No Necklaces: Avoid using teething necklaces, bracelets, or anklets. They pose strangulation and choking hazards.
- No Hard Foods: Avoid giving hard foods like raw carrots or apples that could break into small pieces and cause choking.
8. Recognizing Signs of Discomfort:
- Symptoms: Look for increased drooling, gum swelling, irritability, and a tendency to chew on objects.
- Comfort Measures: Offer extra cuddles, use soothing music, and ensure a calm environment to help your baby through discomfort.
9. Regular Dental Check-ups:
- First Visit: Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.
- Dental Guidance: Your pediatric dentist can provide specific advice on oral hygiene and teething care.
10. Addressing Myths:
- Fever and Diarrhea: Mild temperature increases can occur, but high fever and diarrhea are not typical teething symptoms. Consult a pediatrician if these symptoms appear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can teething cause a fever?
Mild temperature increases can occur, but a high fever is usually not due to teething. Contact a pediatrician if the fever is above 101°F.
What if my baby is teething late?
There is a wide range of normal when it comes to teething. Consult your pediatrician if no teeth have appeared by 18 months.
How can I maintain my baby’s oral hygiene?
Start by wiping the gums with a clean cloth before teeth appear. Once teeth emerge, brush twice daily with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Are there any foods that help with teething?
Chilled fruits like applesauce or yogurt can soothe gums. Avoid hard foods that could pose a choking hazard.
Is it safe to use teething gels and ointments?
It is advisable to speak with your pediatrician prior to applying any ointments or gels for teething. Because of the possibility of methemoglobinemia, the FDA advises against giving benzocaine products to children under the age of two.
What are the best teething toys for my baby?
Provide chilled teething toys, cold washcloths, or soft, cold foods. Extra cuddles and attention can also comfort your baby. Consult your pediatrician before using any medication.
Understanding the teething timeline and knowing how to ease your baby’s discomfort can make this developmental phase smoother for both parents and babies. Keep an eye on their progress and maintain regular dental check-ups to ensure their oral health.
