Every moment of your baby’s first year of life is precious, since every day your child grows a little, develops new skills, and discovers new things. Most of it is wonderful, but parents don’t like to see their babies in pain. That’s why teething can be such a hard experience. However, you can take steps to make it easier for you and your baby.

What to Expect

Most babies begin teething around the age of six months, when the lower central incisors start to appear. Shortly after this time, the upper central incisors poke through, followed by the lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and second molars. Unfortunately, you’ll probably know that your baby is teething not because you see these teeth come in, but because your baby will be in discomfort. These are some of the signs to watch for when you’re expecting your baby to begin teething.

• Increased drooling
• Chewing on objects
• Irritability or fussiness
• Sore or tender gums
• Slight increase in temperature (not to be confused with fever)

Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. Along with your normal dental care, here are some effective treatments and strategies to help soothe a teething baby:

1. Cold Teething Toys

• Chilled (Not Frozen) Teething Rings: Refrigerate teething rings to help numb the gums and provide relief.
• Cold Washcloth: Dampen a clean washcloth and chill it in the refrigerator. Let the baby chew on it.

2. Teething Gels and Pain Relief

• Teething Gels: Over-the-counter teething gels can provide temporary relief, but use them sparingly and consult your pediatrician first.
• Pain Relievers: If the baby is particularly uncomfortable, ask your pediatrician about using infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

3. Gentle Gum Massage

• Clean Finger: Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger to provide relief.
• Damp Gauze Pad: Use a clean, damp gauze pad to massage the gums.

4. Teething Biscuits and Cold Foods

• Teething Biscuits: Offer teething biscuits or rusks for the baby to gnaw on.
• Cold Foods: For babies who have started solid foods, offer chilled fruits like banana slices or applesauce.

5. Distraction and Comfort

• Distraction: Engage your baby with toys, games, or activities to distract them from the discomfort.
• Comfort and Cuddles: Hold and cuddle your baby more often to provide comfort and reassurance.

6. Maintain Oral Hygiene

• Clean Gums: Even before teeth appear, it’s good practice to clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth.

7. Avoid Certain Products

• Avoid Frozen Teething Rings: These can be too hard and may damage the gums.
• Avoid Products with Benzocaine: The FDA warns against using benzocaine-containing products for children under 2 due to the risk of a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia.

When to See a Doctor

If your baby has symptoms that seem unusual or severe, such as a high fever, diarrhea, or persistent crying, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician to rule out other issues.

Teething is a normal part of development, and while it can be uncomfortable, these strategies can help provide relief for your baby during this period.

Once your child’s first tooth comes in, it’s time to start thinking your baby’s first trip to our Dulles, VA office. The American Dental Association suggests that you bring your child to the dentist within six months of the appearance of the first tooth, or at about one year of age. Our Doctors can do a dental exam to check for tooth decay, and we’ll make sure you know how to take care of your child’s new teeth.