Understanding Your Infant’s Mouth: A Guide to Teething

Teething is a difficult experience for any family, but understanding the process and symptoms is a great way to help your infant deal with the pain. Even though we forget the discomfort associated with teething as we age, it’s not something you can explain to a baby with a very sore mouth!

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Though some babies are born with teeth, infants usually start teething sometime between three months and six months. Don’t worry if your little one hasn’t cut a tooth by six months because some babies don’t start teething until closer to their first birthday. Just remember, every baby is different, so if your kiddo is otherwise healthy and growing, the teeth will come in when they’re ready.

What Order do Baby Teeth Come In?

Like many things in nature, teeth tend to come in pairs. Usually, the first teeth will be the two front teeth, either top or bottom. Once the four front teeth have emerged, the side front teeth will follow. Finally, the molars will break through until all 20 primary teeth are accounted for, usually by their third birthday.

What Are Baby Teething Symptoms?

Teething can cause an array of symptoms depending on how your kiddo reacts. Every kid is different and you many find that symptoms for the front teeth and molars are completely different. Common symptoms of teething include:

• A mild fever (less than 102°)
• Increased drooling
• Runny nose
• Decreased appetite for solid foods
• Swollen gums
• Increased biting, chewing, and sucking
• Facial rash
• Gum-rubbing
• Rubbing or pulling at ears
• Irritability

Your child may experience other symptoms, like mild diarrhea, but they should resolve with treatment within 24 hours. You should see a doctor if your child’s fever is over 102°, has decreased appetite for liquids, a rash appearing places other than the face, cough and congestion, uncontrolled diarrhea, or uncontrolled vomiting.

How Can I Soothe My Baby’s Teething Pain?

If you’re experiencing the difficulties of a teething baby, you’re probably wondering how to soothe teething pain. There are many options for relieving some of the discomfort caused by cutting teeth.

• Massage the gums with your clean finger or a moist gauze pad.
• Cold washcloths or teething rings can offer relief, but don’t use frozen items.
• Offer something hard to gnaw on if your baby is able to eat solid foods. Good choices are peeled and chilled vegetables like cucumbers and carrots.
• Care for your baby’s face by drying excess drool. Part of teething is drooling which can cause skin irritation, so it’s a good idea to keep a clean cloth handy to dry your kiddo’s cheeks and chin.
• If your little one is having an especially difficult time with teething, over-the-counter remedies like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help.

Teething is a trying time for parents and other family members. It’s tough to see a little one experience pain and discomfort but taking steps to alleviate the symptoms can ease the transition. Before you know it, the teething process will be over and your kiddo will be ready for a trip to the dentist!