At Higgins Dental we know that your child’s first tooth is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a tricky time for not only your baby but for parents and caregivers too. We have put together some information to help you navigate this phase with confidence.
When does teething begin?
Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, typically begin to emerge when your child is around 6 months old. However, the timing can vary significantly from one child to another. Some babies might get their first tooth as early as 3 months, while others may not see any teeth until their first birthday.
By the time your child is 2.5-3 they should have a full set of 20 baby teeth.
Common signs and symptoms
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. As new teeth push through the gums, your child may experience discomfort and exhibit various symptoms. Here are some of the most common signs of teething:
Irritability and Fussiness: Teething pain can make your baby more irritable than usual. You may notice they are crying more frequently and are harder to soothe.
Drooling: Excessive drooling is one of the earliest signs of teething. The increased saliva can sometimes cause a mild rash around the mouth and chin.
Chewing on Objects: Babies often chew on toys, fingers, or anything they can get their hands on to relieve the pressure of a tooth breaking through the gum.
Swollen, Tender Gums: You might notice that your baby’s gums are swollen and red where a tooth is about to erupt.
Changes in Eating and Sleeping Patterns: Teething discomfort can disrupt your baby’s regular eating and sleeping habits. They might refuse to eat or wake up more frequently during the night.
Pulling on Ears or Rubbing Cheeks: The pain from erupting teeth can sometimes radiate to the ears and cheeks, causing your baby to pull on their ears or rub their cheeks.
A combination of these symptoms often points to teething, but this may not always be the case, so if you’re uncertain it’s best to make an appointment with your doctor
How to Help Your Teething Baby
While teething is a natural process, there are ways to help ease your baby’s discomfort:
Teething Toys: Give your baby safe, soft teething toys to chew on. Chilled teething rings can be particularly soothing.
Gum Massage: Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a soft, damp cloth.
Pain Relief: Consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using over-the-counter pain relievers designed for infants. Always follow dosing instructions carefully.
Comforting: Extra cuddles and comfort can go a long way in helping your baby through this uncomfortable time.
When to Visit the Dentist
It’s recommended that your child visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth emerging. This early dental visit helps to ensure that your child’s teeth are developing properly, allows you to address any concerns and get some tips on how to look after bubs new teeth!
At Higgins Dental, we’re here to support you and your child through every stage of their dental development. If you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s teeth, don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic. We’re dedicated to providing gentle and compassionate care for even our youngest patients.
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