Teething is a significant milestone in your baby’s growth. One that can be both fascinating and challenging for parents.
From excessive drooling and restless nights to an insistent urge to chew on anything within reach, these signs signal the arrival of tiny teeth. However, with understanding and preparation, this phase can be more manageable.
Learning to soothe your baby amidst signs of teething, be it through gentle massages, chilled teething toys, or comforting cuddles, can make a big difference.
Every baby experiences teething uniquely, but armed with knowledge and a few proven techniques, you can confidently navigate this developmental journey, ensuring that you and your little one come out stronger from the experience.
What is Baby Teething?
Teething is a natural process wherein an infant’s first set of teeth, known as primary or baby teeth, begin to emerge. This usually starts around 6 months of age, although it can vary from baby to baby.
The process of teething is gradual and can be uncomfortable for babies due to the pressure and irritation caused by the emerging teeth pushing through the gums. However, it is typically managed with soothing techniques.
What Are The Signs of Teething?
Signs of teething generally begin around 6 months of age but can start as early as 3 months and continue up to 2 or 3 years old as more teeth emerge. Infants display a different mix of symptoms during teething.
However, it’s essential to remember that while some babies will show at least one or two of the following signs when they begin to teethe, many babies show little or none at all:
1. Excessive Drooling
Teething stimulates the production of saliva. This is why you may notice your baby drooling more than usual, which can sometimes lead to a rash on their face, chin, or chest.
Babies instinctively drool more when they are teething because the excess saliva can help soothe and lubricate their gums, providing some relief from the discomfort.
2. Irritability and Fussiness
As new teeth begin to push through the gums, babies become more irritable than usual. They may cry more frequently, appear more restless, and have difficulty settling down for sleep or feedings.
This irritability is often a result of the persistent discomfort in their mouth, which can be worsened when they try to eat or suck on a bottle or breast. Babies may also exhibit fussiness by showing increased clinginess.
3. Chewing and Gnawing
Babies often instinctively chew on things and may gnaw on their fingers, toys, even household items, or anything they can get their hands on, to temporarily relieve the pain and itching sensation in their gums.
4. Swollen Gums
Before a tooth appears, the gums may appear swollen and may be sensitive to touch. You might see redness or bulging in your baby’s gums where the tooth is about to come through.
5. Changes in eating and sleeping patterns
Your baby may show a decreased interest in feeding or may refuse to eat altogether. Due to sore gums, they may take shorter nursing sessions or bottle feeds, or they may prefer softer foods if they have started on solids.
Teething discomfort can also cause babies to have difficulty settling down for naps or nighttime sleep. Those who previously slept through the night may wake up more frequently and have trouble getting back to sleep.
6. Ear Pulling or Cheek Rubbing
Babies may tug or pull on their ears during teething. The discomfort in the gums can radiate to the ears, leading babies to pull on them in an attempt to alleviate the pain or pressure they feel.
Similarly, babies may rub their cheeks against surfaces such as their crib railing or caregiver’s shoulder. This rubbing action may provide some counterpressure that temporarily relieves pain.
How to Soothe Your Teething Baby
Soothing a teething baby can be a tender yet challenging task for any parent or caregiver. As your little one begins to show the signs of teething above, their usual cheery demeanor may give way to bouts of fussiness and irritability.
From offering teething toys to gentle gum massages, there are various techniques and strategies that can bring relief to your baby’s discomfort and ensure comfort and calmness. They are the following:
1. Cold Teething Toys
A highly effective way to soothe your teething baby is by offering cold teething toys. The cool temperature helps numb and alleviate the discomfort in their swollen gums, providing instant relief.
Opt for safe, BPA-free teething toys specifically designed to be chilled in the refrigerator (not frozen, as extreme cold can be too harsh on delicate gums).
Ensure safety and consider rotating them throughout the day to maintain their cooling effect.
2. Gentle Gum Massage
Using a clean finger, gently rub or massage your baby’s gums in circular motions. This gentle pressure can help to relieve some of the pain and pressure caused by emerging teeth.
You can do this several times a day, especially when you notice your baby becoming more irritable or showing signs of teething discomfort. Make sure your hands are clean to avoid introducing any germs into your baby’s mouth.
3. Chilled Washcloth
A chilled washcloth helps numb your baby’s sore gums, offering much-needed relief from teething discomfort.
Start by taking a clean washcloth and dampening it with water and popping it into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to chill.
Once chilled, offer the washcloth to your baby to chew on. It’s important to supervise your baby while they use the washcloth to ensure safety, replacing it with a freshly chilled one if it becomes too warm.
4. Teething biscuits or cold foods
Teething biscuits are made from ingredients that dissolve easily in saliva, providing them with a textured surface that helps relieve discomfort in their gums.
It’s essential to choose biscuits that are age-appropriate and free from added sugars. Cold foods, such as chilled fruit purees or yogurt, can also provide relief.
You can offer these foods in a safe and controlled manner, either by spoon-feeding or letting your baby self-feed if they are old enough for solid foods.
5. Comfort and Cuddles
Hold your baby close, rock them gently, and speak to them in a soothing voice to calm their nerves. The physical closeness and warmth of your embrace can provide immense comfort and help distract your baby from the pain in their gums.
Additionally, cuddling allows you to closely monitor your baby’s behavior and respond promptly to their needs. Sometimes, all your baby needs is the reassurance that you are there for them.
6. Natural Teething Remedies
Some parents find that natural remedies like chamomile tea or clove oil can help alleviate discomfort. However, always consult with your pediatrician first before trying any new remedy.
Have a happy teething journey with your baby!
Teething is a milestone that can be challenging but manageable with the right strategies and patience. Understanding the signs of teething and knowing how to soothe your baby can make this phase smoother for both you and your little one.
By responding attentively to your baby’s cues and employing the methods discussed above, you can navigate teething with patience and care, ensuring your baby feels supported and comforted.
Teething is a natural process, but if you notice any unusual symptoms like a high fever, diarrhea, or a rash not related to drooling, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician.
They can help rule out other potential causes and offer additional guidance. For more baby care tips, visit Moon Mystical.