Babies often start teething when they are about six months. In some instances, a baby can teeth from as early as four months, while others hardly show signs of teething until 12 months. Babies have different milestones, which can be confusing to parents.
If you’re a new parent, chances are that you have heard the teething narratives, some of which are just misconceptions. You might have a host of questions on baby teething. Our complete guide will give you answers to most of your queries.
Read on to know more about teething in babies.
When Do Babies Start Teething?
For new parents, this is arguably one of the most common queries. In fact, it becomes such a bother when a parent realizes that their young one isn’t showing any signs of teething past six months. So, when exactly, do babies start teething?
Your baby’s first tooth can erupt anywhere from four months. In most instances, the first tooth is visible at six months. Some children are late, average, or early teethers. It would be best to understand these concepts to avoid fretting if your baby delays teeth compared to other babies in the neighborhood.
While it is rare, some babies have a tooth on the first day of being born. The tooth is often malformed, which shouldn’t be a cause for alarm. Nonetheless, it would help to consult with your pediatrician for your peace of mind.
Baby teething is exciting for parents as it is a sign that their development is as expected. Yet, it is crucial to understand that teething can delay. Your baby’s teeth will grow as soon as they are ready, which can be way later than your friends’ babies.
If you feel like the teething delay is unusual, trust your gut. You can visit a pediatric dentist to have your baby checked.
Teething Symptoms in Babies
Did you know that your baby’s first dental visit shouldn’t be later than their first birthday? Preferably, it should be at six months when the first tooth often erupts. The dentist will guide you on the teething signs to expect.
The teething process often comes with soreness and achy feelings. Some of the top teething signs that you should keep an eye on include;
Crying
If your baby has become cranky, there’s a chance teething has already started. Your baby’s tender gum tissues will be inflamed as the tooth erupts. The first teeth are usually the most painful, but babies tend to get used to the process, leading to fewer cries as the other teeth erupt.
Drooling
Teething babies tend to drool more than usual. You’ll notice your baby having a wet bib or shirt. It would help keep wiping the chin gently and changing the wet shirts to ensure that your young one is comfortable.
Biting
As the teeth poke out of the gum, the baby will experience some discomfort. Babies tend to relieve this pressure by biting or chewing anything they can find, including your nipples! If not monitored, they can chew unhygienic things leading to infections.
Rubbing the Cheeks and Pulling Ears
You’re probably wondering what the cheeks and the ears got to do with a baby’s growing teeth! Well, the nerve pathway connects the cheeks, gums, and ears. As such, teething babies will yank their ears and rub their cheeks in agitation.
Baby Refuses To Eat
While the gum’s pressure prompts babies to yearn for soothing, the suction irritates them. It is quite uncomfortable, and the little ones tend to get fussy when feeding. The fussiness gets worse if they become hungry, but they can’t eat comfortably.
You might want to call a pediatrician if the situation is consistent for a few days. The last thing you’d want is having a dehydrated or malnourished baby.
Taking Care of a Baby’s New Teeth
As soon as the first tooth appears, it’s time to start taking great care of your baby’s dental hygiene. The teeth will take a while before extracting to give space for adult teeth. However, it’s crucial to have the contact of Family Dentist baby teeth extraction experts.
The dental hygiene habits that you introduce to your little one will determine if they will have healthy gums and teeth as they grow up. Take the necessary steps to curb cases of tooth decay and cavities, which are common in children.
Start by cleaning your baby’s teeth gently twice daily. Use a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste designed for babies. Teach your kid to rinse and spit the toothpaste after brushing.
When To Seek Medical Assistance
Some teething signs that parents report aren’t normal. High fever and vomiting in babies are some of the symptoms that people have normalized in teething. It is crucial to call your doctor when your baby has a high fever as it can be an indication of an infection other than teething.
While swelling gums can cause a low-grade fever, anything higher than 101 degrees beyond three days is a cause for alarm. Your pediatrician should be able to diagnose your baby for the right treatment.
Diarrhea is another symptom that isn’t always related to teething. If it persists in more than two to three bowel movements, call a doctor. Diarrhea is a symptom that can escalate the issue leading to adverse impacts.
It is safer for first-time parents to contact their pediatrician if you’re unsure about a symptom. Better to be safe as babies are quite delicate. The doctor will rule out any sickness, which will give you peace of mind as your baby’s teeth continue to grow.
Teething in Babies Is Exciting, Yet Scary for New Parents
Most babies start teething before their first birthday. The milestones can differ from one baby to another, making some parents fret over baby teething delays. However, teething shouldn’t worry about you as long as your baby is healthy.
Parents must be aware of the common signs of teething in babies. The right information makes it easier for parents to understand the phases the baby is going through. If you have any concerns regarding your young one’s teeth, a family dentist will be able to help.
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