Babies may be born without teeth, but they don’t stay that way for long. Within just a few months, their teeth begin to emerge from their gums in a process called teething.
This stage is one of the most challenging periods in a child’s early life – especially for new parents. The good news is that it never lasts forever. Let’s talk about when teething starts, how long it usually takes, and what you can do to help your baby through this part of their development.
Typical Teething Time Frames
Most babies start teething when they’re around 6 months old. Like all infant milestones, however, this time frame varies significantly between kids. Some get their first tooth at just 3 months old, but others may reach their 1st birthday with no teeth.
Don’t fret if your child’s teeth don’t appear right away. Even when the first tooth is late, almost all children have their full set of baby teeth by their 3rd birthday.
Signs That Teething Has Started
Not sure if your baby is teething? You might not be able to tell at a glance.
Most babies’ teeth aren’t visible at first. You’ll have to rely on other indicators to figure out if they may be on their way. Look out for these signs of teething in your infant:
- Crying or fussing more than usual
- Excessive drooling
- Chewing motions, even with nothing in their mouth
- Sore, reddened gums
It’s important to note that these signs can indicate more serious health problems. If your baby displays these symptoms for several days and can’t be soothed, consider taking them to their pediatrician for a checkup just to be safe.
What To Do Next
It usually doesn’t take more than a few days for a teething baby’s first tooth to break through their gums. That means it’s time to book their first dentist appointment.
Your baby’s dentist will examine their teeth and gums to make sure they’re developing normally. They’ll also inspect any visible teeth for signs of decay and give you advice on how to keep your baby’s teeth clean and healthy.
In the meantime, though, there are a few things you can do to soothe your baby’s pain.
- Gently massage their gums with your finger or a damp cloth.
- Offer them a chilled teething ring, a wet washcloth, or a piece of soft fruit like cantaloupe. They’ll chew on it to relieve some of the discomfort they’re feeling. If you use a piece of fruit, be sure to wipe your child’s gums with a clean damp cloth afterward.
- After checking with your child’s pediatrician, give them a low dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Avoid using teething gels if possible. Many of them contain numbing agents that are theoretically safe for babies but toxic in higher doses. Since it’s hard to measure exactly how much you’re putting on your child’s gums, these products are best used as a last resort and with professional guidance.
Put Teething Troubles Behind You with Coscarella Family Dentistry
Don’t have a dentist for your teething baby yet? Look no further. Our team of patient, understanding dental professionals is here to help you set your child up for good oral health for life. Contact us today to book your baby’s first-ever dentist appointment and get the peace of mind you need during this stressful time.
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