Teething is an important step in your baby's early growth and the start of a fun new chapter. Parents may enjoy seeing their child's first tiny teeth come in, but it can also be hard at times. As the baby teeth start to come through the gums, many parents start to wonder about the signs of teething and the many myths that surround this time. With so much confusing information out there, it's important to tell the difference between fact and myth if you want to feel safe during this time.
There are also a lot of false beliefs about chewing that can make parents even more anxious. But if you know what to do and stay informed, you can make this hard time easy for both you and your baby. Ensure the right care and support for your child's growth, so you can celebrate these moments with joy and peace. Dr. Ashley Lerman, a dedicated pediatric dentist and mom, found Firstgrin to help families build a strong foundation for healthy baby teeth.
Signs of Teething
This is a clear sign that your child may be teething: they will drool more than normal. When babies explore things with their lips, they often drool. But if you notice a lot more drooling, it could mean that teeth are coming in. Keep in mind that not all saliva is caused by chewing. When your baby drools more than usual and acts differently, it might mean that a tooth is beginning to come through.
Besides more drooling, these are some other usual signs to look out for:
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Swollen or Red Gums
As your baby's teeth start to come in, you may notice that his or her gums look swollen or a little red where the teeth are breaking through.
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Getting irritable or fussy
Babies may become more irritable or fussy when their teeth are coming in because the pressure from their teeth pushing through their gums can be painful.
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Rubbing Your Cheek and Ears
Babies rub their cheeks and ears a lot because nerves that control the gums are close to these areas. This rubbing might be a reaction to the pain of biting.
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Refusing to Eat or Drink
While chewing, some babies may temporarily refuse to eat or drink. Even though this behavior doesn't last long, it's very important that they stay hydrated during this time.
If you notice these things, your baby is probably teething. But if symptoms are severe or persist for a long time, you should see a doctor to rule out any other health problems.
Common Myths About Teething
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Teething Causes High Fever and Diarrhea
A prevalent misconception is that teething can lead to a high fever. In reality, while a slight increase in temperature can occur, any fever exceeding 100.4°F should prompt a visit to the pediatrician, as it may indicate an underlying issue. Children who are teething are often putting their hands in their mouths, making them more susceptible to germs. If your child develops a persistent fever, ensure to consult your pediatrician to rule out other possible illnesses.
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Teething Always Results in Rashes
Teething may cause a drool rash around the mouth due to increased saliva, but it should not cause a full-body rash. If you notice any unusual rashes, consulting a healthcare professional is advised. For diaper rashes caused by loose stools, treat them with a zinc oxide ointment, and seek care if you see any worsening issues.
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Drooling Always Means Teething
Babies will begin drooling and putting their hands in their mouths as early as three months due to their oral exploration phase. An increase from their baseline may be a sign of teething, but drooling and hands being in the mouth alone are NOT definitive indicators.
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All Teething Gels Are Safe
Parents often assume that teething gels are safe for their children; however, many of these products contain substances like benzocaine that can be harmful. Always check with your pediatrician before using any medicated products on your baby's gums.
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Amber Necklaces Are a Safe Solution
Another common myth is that amber necklaces relieve teething pain. These necklaces pose choking and strangulation risks and lack scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. It’s important to prioritize your baby's safety over unproven remedies.
Best Teething Remedies
When it comes to easing your baby’s discomfort, several remedies can be effective:
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Cold Teething Toys
Chilled teething rings or Washcloths might bring comfort. For a soothing chew toy, just wet a clean towel, tie it to a ring, and put it in the fridge.
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Gentle Gum Massage
Massaging your baby's gums with a clean finger can offer comfort as their teeth begin to break through. Be cautious, though, as your baby may bite if they have multiple teeth coming in.
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Healthy Distractions
Offering frozen fruits in a fruit feeder can provide a tasty distraction while also helping to soothe sore gums. For breastfeeding moms, consider making a breast milk popsicle by freezing breast milk in a fruit feeder.
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Create a Teething Toy
Make a teething toy by putting a clean, wet towel on a ring and freezing it. You can also roll the wet washcloth into muffin tins and freeze them. Your baby can hold this, gnaw on it, and apply it directly where they feel discomfort.
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Comfort and Patience
Your calming presence and extra cuddles can make a world of difference. Knowing that teething is a normal aspect of your child's development helps reduce anxiety for both you and your infant. Remember, having teeth come through the gum line doesn’t feel great—some extra snuggles and go-to remedies are the best combination.
Conclusion
Teething can be a tough phase, but being informed about the signs and separating fact from myth can empower you as a parent. If you have any concerns about your child's teething experience, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. Keep in mind that many people are quick to blame teething for any fussiness or sleep disturbances. While it can contribute to irritability, these symptoms are also common in infants and toddlers regardless of teething.
Patience and empathy go a long way in helping your baby cope with discomfort. Remember, maintaining a calm and reassuring presence will help your baby feel more secure during this transitional period.
