What is Teething?
Teething is a significant milestone in infancy and early childhood, marking the emergence of primary or milk teeth. This phase typically begins between the 6th and 8th months, although some infants may arrive with teeth already visible, which is usually abnormal. The complete set of 20 primary teeth will gradually erupt, completing by the 30th month. This includes 4 incisors, 2 canines, and 4 molars in each jaw, with the lower incisors typically coming in first, followed by the upper incisors.
Symptoms of Teething
As your baby undergoes teething, various symptoms may arise. These include:
- Excess saliva
- Mild discomfort or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Refusal to eat
- Biting or chewing on hard objects
- Low-grade fever
The discomfort results from pressure on the periodontal membrane, which occurs as teeth push through the gums.
Managing Teething Discomfort
While some infants experience minimal discomfort, others may show significant signs of irritation. Red and sore gums are common, and it’s essential to provide relief. Here are some methods to help ease the discomfort:
- Offer cool objects such as frozen teething rings or ice-cold washcloths.
- Provide hard items to chew on, like unsweetened teething biscuits or sturdy teething toys.
Oral Care for Infants
Proper dental hygiene should start as soon as the first teeth appear. Here are some crucial tips:
- Brush your child’s teeth thoroughly twice a day, especially before bed.
- Supervise your child while brushing until they can do it effectively.
- Use fluoride-free toothpaste to prevent ingestion.
- Minimize sugar intake to protect developing teeth.
- Aim to stop bottle feeding by 12 to 15 months.
- Cease nighttime milk feeding once several teeth emerge to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Homecare Treatments for Teething
It’s vital to refrain from rubbing or cutting the gums to hasten the eruption of teeth, as this can lead to infections. Avoid using teething powders and aspirin, as well. Most topical pain relievers are ineffective since excess saliva can wash them away quickly.
Conclusion
Teething can be a challenging experience for both parents and infants, but understanding the process and symptoms can help alleviate concerns. By providing proper care and comfort, parents can support their children through this essential developmental stage.
Credit: This article is based on NDTV
Key Highlights
- Teething typically starts between 6 and 8 months, with all 20 primary teeth emerging by 30 months.
- Symptoms include irritability, excess saliva, and sleep disruptions.
- Relief methods involve cool teething objects and hard items for chewing.
- Maintain oral hygiene from the appearance of the first tooth.
