Teething

Many people don't realize that a child is already born with teeth. They develop long before birth, about the 5th or 6th week after conception. All "baby teeth" are present when the child is born and just waiting to sprout.

Teething is a natural process that occurs when an infant's first set of teeth, also known as baby teeth or deciduous teeth, begin to emerge through their gums. This process typically starts around six months and can continue until the child is about three years old.

Generally, the first symptoms you will notice when the baby is teething are excessive drooling and red and swollen gums. The baby may be fussy, and crying will tell you there is some pain.

Common teething symptoms include:

  • Irritability and fussiness
  • Drooling
  • Swollen or red gums
  • Chewing on objects or fingers
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Loss of appetite

Baby teeth typically emerge in a specific order. The bottom front teeth (lower central incisors)are first, followed by the top front teeth (upper central incisors), lateral incisors, first molars, canines (eye teeth), and second molars.

There is no way to stop teething. The teeth will inevitably push through the surface of the gums, which will cause redness, swollen gums, and some pain. Your child doesn't have to suffer from teething, though. Simple home remedies for teething can quickly put a smile back on your little one's face.

Home Remedies and Natural Cures for Teething

Safety Concerns: Be cautious about some remedies, such as teething necklaces, small items, or homeopathic teething tablets, as they can pose safety risks, including choking and strangulation hazards. Provide teething rings or toys designed for teething to avoid a choking hazard.

Teething can be challenging for babies and parents due to the discomfort and irritability it can cause. While no guaranteed home remedies will eliminate teething pain, you can try several safe and soothing techniques to help relieve your teething baby. Here are some home remedies for teething:

Chilled Teething Rings

Teething rings or toys designed for babies can provide comfort by allowing them to chew and gnaw on something safe. You can purchase teething rings in the baby aisle of your favorite discount or dollar store. Refrigerate these items (but do not freeze) before giving them to your baby for an extra soothing effect. The teething ring itself isn't the home remedy for teething, but the cool feeling from the chilled ring on the gums helps with the pain.

Massage Gums

This practice is good for cleaning baby's gums and helps with the pain associated with teething. Think of a sore back – doesn't a massage feel good? This home remedy should be used daily, as it will help with teething and get the baby used to brushing once the teeth arrive. Wash your hands thoroughly, then gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger. The pressure can help soothe the discomfort caused by emerging teeth.

Cold Washcloth

This home remedy can be used anytime, anywhere. Wet a clean washcloth and briefly place it in the refrigerator until it's cool but not frozen. Let your baby chew or suck on the chilled washcloth for relief. Even a washcloth placed under a cold water fountain can help a baby with teething when out and about. Again, it isn't so much the cloth helping but the cool feel of the washcloth on the gums.

Yummy Teethers

Make something for teething out of common household foods! Apples are hard and tasty, so take one slice from the refrigerator and wrap it securely in a wet chilled washcloth. When the baby bites down, it will taste good! This will encourage the little one to keep biting and get those teeth through the surface of the gums.

Teething Biscuits

Some commercially available teething biscuits are designed to help soothe teething discomfort. Teething biscuits are biscuits that do not crack or crumble. Babies gnaw on the biscuit, and they melt and dissolve on contact with your baby's gums, stimulating and soothing them. Be sure to choose age-appropriate and safe options.

Baby Teething Gel, Swabs, or Ointment

Some over-the-counter teething gels, swabs, or ointments may temporarily relieve teething and sore gums. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult your healthcare provider before using them.

OTC Pain Medications

Under the guidance of a healthcare provider, you can use infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen if your baby is experiencing significant pain or fever. Follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult your healthcare provider for proper usage.

Cautions

Remember that teething is a temporary phase, and the discomfort usually subsides once all the baby teeth have erupted. If your child's teething symptoms are severe or persistent, or if you have concerns about their oral health, consult with a pediatrician or pediatric dentist for guidance and appropriate care.