Baby Teething Tips
Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll
Baby Teething Tips From your slc pediatric dentist
Your newborn infant is born with 20 teeth hidden behind the gum line. Before you realize it, your cheerful baby has become irritable and prone to drooling regularly, as those teeth begin to emerge.
The first tooth typically emerges between 6 months and one year and can be hard on your little one. Today on the blog, Dr. Ari shares tips and remedies to help your teething baby.
Teething Signs in Your Baby
When your baby starts teething, it may be a challenging period. There are, however, a variety of baby teething strategies to assist in comforting your youngster. If your infant is approximately six months old (time varies), you may notice the following teething symptoms:
- Gums that are either sore or sensitive
- Drooling
- Irritability
- Chewing
- A rash from drool around the mouth
Typically, the first tooth to develop is one of the bottom incisors. It is a good idea to check your baby’s mouth for any lumps that might indicate freshly emerging teeth. Teething may take longer for some newborns than others, so infants may experience symptoms months before a tooth appears.
How to Help Ease Teething Pain
Gently Massage Your Baby’s Gums
Applying pressure with a clean finger to your baby’s gums may help relieve the pain. Gently rub their gums and see how they react.
Massaging sore gums may assist your infant in relaxing and falling asleep.
Use a Cold Washcloth or Rag
Another idea to help soothe sore gums is to soak a clean washcloth in cold water for your baby to chew on. You can also place the cloth in the refrigerator to chill.
If your infant is chewing on something, even a washcloth, you should never leave them alone since this might pose a choking hazard.
Chilled Pacifier
If your child takes a pacifier, you can use it to cool down and calm their gums. Clean the pacifier and store it in the refrigerator. The cooling may numb the gums and reduce some of the discomfort.Â
Teething Toy
For a teething baby, a teething toy can provide them with something fun that also helps to soothe gums. There are many teething toys out there that you can purchase online. Make sure that you buy your toy from a reputable company that has had their products tested for safety.
Frozen treats
If your kid has started eating solid meals, you might try freezing some fruit to help calm inflamed gums. Chilled, mashed bananas are an excellent starting point! Other fruits can be placed in a mesh feeder for your baby to suck on. The mesh feeder will assist in preventing choking. Chilled apples, pears, or strawberries are just a few examples of fruit you might try. It’s important to keep an eye on your baby at all times while they are eating solid foods.
A popsicle or a little ice cream can also help alleviate discomfort and help soothe sensitive gums.
Additional Cuddling Time
Extra snuggle time is sometimes the most excellent approach to treating a baby in pain. Rocking your baby in an oversized chair or carrying your infant around the home (in a baby carrier) are also excellent options to help soothe them. The additional cuddling time will help you both get some much-needed slumber.
Medicated Pain Relievers
As a last option, you might discuss the possibility of supplying over-the-counter pain medicine with your doctor. These medications assist in relieving discomfort and allowing the infant to sleep. Again, your doctor can advise you on the proper dosage and the best sort of pain medication to use.
Tips for Feeding a Teething Baby
If your baby has moved onto solid foods, they may try to avoid eating when they begin teething. Many foods may cause your baby’s gums further irritation. They also may start drooling more which can also irritate your baby’s skin.
During this uncomfortable time, there are a few things you can try to help your baby feel more comfortable.
Bib for Drooling
It is beneficial to have your infant wear a bib when teething. A teething baby will have a propensity to drool. Make it a point to clean away drool from your baby’s chin and face to avoid additional irritation. To prevent a rash, your child’s face should be kept dry.
Soft Foods
Avocados, yams, mashed potatoes, and bananas, are all foods that are soft and won’t further irritate your little one’s gums. Be sure to monitor your baby at all times while they are eating.
Cold Foods
Cold foods such as smoothies and purées are another great way for your baby to receive the nutrition they need while helping with gum pain.
Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry
Questions about your child’s oral health? We’re here for you! Contact our Pediatric Dentist office in SLC today to learn more.
