Understanding Teething: When Do Babies Start Teething and What to Expect
Welcoming a new baby into the family is a joyous occasion filled with many milestones, from the first smile to the first steps. Among these, teething is a significant event that every parent eagerly anticipates and sometimes dreads. Understanding when babies start teething and how to navigate this developmental phase can help ease the process for both parents and their little ones.
When Do Babies Start Teething?
Typically, babies begin teething around six months of age, although it can start as early as three months or as late as twelve months. The first teeth to appear are usually the two bottom front teeth, known as the lower central incisors, followed by the four upper front teeth, the upper central and lateral incisors. By the time a child is three years old, they usually have a complete set of 20 primary teeth.
Signs and Symptoms of Teething
Teething can be a challenging time for babies and parents alike, as it often brings discomfort and irritability. Here are some common signs and symptoms of teething:
- Drooling: Increased saliva production is one of the earliest signs of teething. You may notice your baby drooling more than usual.
- Chewing on Objects: To alleviate gum discomfort, teething babies often chew on toys, fingers, or any objects they can find.
- Irritability and Fussiness: The pressure of emerging teeth beneath the gums can cause pain and discomfort, leading to fussiness and irritability.
- Swollen, Tender Gums: You might notice that your baby’s gums are swollen and tender to the touch.
- Sleep Disturbances: Teething discomfort can disrupt your baby’s sleep patterns, leading to more frequent wakefulness during the night.
- Refusal to Eat: The pain associated with teething can make babies reluctant to eat or nurse.
- Ear Pulling and Cheek Rubbing: Babies may pull on their ears or rub their cheeks as a response to the discomfort in their gums.
How to Soothe a Teething Baby
While teething can be uncomfortable for your baby, there are several ways to help ease their pain and discomfort:
- Teething Toys: Provide safe, soft teething toys for your baby to chew on. These can help massage their gums and provide relief.
- Cold Compresses: Chilled teething rings or a cold, damp washcloth can be soothing for swollen gums. Ensure that they are not too cold to avoid causing additional discomfort.
- Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help alleviate pain.
- Over-the-Counter Remedies: Infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be given to alleviate severe discomfort, but always consult with your pediatrician before administering any medication.
- Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding: Sometimes, the act of sucking can provide comfort. Ensure your baby is properly latched to avoid additional gum irritation.
- Distraction: Engaging your baby with play, cuddles, or a walk can sometimes help distract them from the discomfort of teething.
Myths and Facts About Teething
Teething has been surrounded by myths and misconceptions for centuries. Understanding the facts can help you manage your baby’s teething phase more effectively.
- Myth: Teething causes high fever and diarrhea. Fact: While teething can cause mild fever, it should not cause a high fever or diarrhea. If your baby has a high fever or persistent diarrhea, consult a pediatrician as it may indicate another illness.
- Myth: Teething causes severe illness. Fact: Teething may cause minor discomfort, but it is not usually associated with severe illness. If your baby seems very unwell, seek medical advice.
- Myth: Rubbing alcohol on the gums helps. Fact: Never use alcohol on your baby’s gums. It can be harmful. Stick to safe, recommended methods of relief.
Teething Timeline
Here’s a general timeline of what to expect with your baby’s teething:
- 6-10 months: Lower central incisors
- 8-12 months: Upper central incisors
- 9-13 months: Upper lateral incisors
- 10-16 months: Lower lateral incisors
- 13-19 months: First molars
- 16-22 months: Canine teeth (cuspids)
- 25-33 months: Second molars
When to Consult a Pediatrician
While teething is a natural process, there are times when you should consult a pediatrician:
- If your baby has a high fever, diarrhea, or vomiting.
- If your baby is extremely irritable and inconsolable.
- If there are any signs of infection in the gums.
Conclusion
Teething is a natural part of your baby’s development, signaling their growth and progress. While it can be a challenging time due to the discomfort and irritability it brings, understanding the process and knowing how to soothe your baby can make it more manageable. Remember, every baby is different, and the teething timeline can vary. With patience, care, and the right approach, you can help your baby navigate through teething with ease and comfort. Celebrate each new tooth as a milestone in your baby’s journey of growth and development.