Teething is one of the earliest major changes in a baby’s development. For babies and parents, this can be a confusing and uncomfortable time. As a parent, watching your child upset, crying, or in pain without being able to necessarily communicate what is wrong can be distressing. Teething typically starts around six months of age, though this may occur sooner or later for some children. During this period, the baby’s little teeth erupt, breaking through the gums, which can cause them to be irritated, sore, etc.
Teething can last for months, and happen in waves, meaning your baby seems to always be troubled in general, or appear uncharacteristically wakeful at night. Parents often describe that their kids are more drooly, cranky, and clingy during such times. While it is a completely natural progression, how you will care for and mitigate their teething discomfort might make a lot of difference. The guidance of the best pediatricians in Cumming, GA, can help a lot. Besides that, here are a few things you can do to help your child through teething.
Comfort the Kid
Soothing your baby’s gums during teething is possibly the best thing you can do. Many babies find relief by chewing on a clean teething ring, soft toy, or even a chilled spoon. The cold may numb the gums and help with swelling. Some parents choose to rub their baby’s gums with a clean finger. Just make sure that you wash your hands first.
Your baby may not feed as well as usual. This is completely normal because they may be in pain in their gums. If your baby is eating solids, try offering soft, cool foods like yogurt. If your baby is breastfeeding, be patient and let them feed themselves at their own pace. Give extra comfort as it will help the babies who do not understand what is happening to them. Consult pediatricians in Cumming, GA, if things are serious.
Talk to a Pediatrician
Though teething is a natural process, it is vital to look for signs indicating that something else is going on. If your baby develops a high fever, diarrhea, or has a rash that does not disappear, call your child’s doctor. Pediatricians can help you differentiate whether the symptoms are due to teething and subsequently help alert you to another illness that may be present.
Professionals can also provide options for over-the-counter medications, such as infant pain relievers and other choices, should the discomfort become unmanageable. Be sure to follow all directions from the doctor and do not give medications without their direction.
Pediatricians in Cumming, GA, also monitor dental development at all scheduled checkups. They can provide you with information on when to begin brushing your baby’s teeth, how to select the right toothbrush, etc. Beginning good oral hygiene from a young age is important for long-term dental health.
Focus on Maintaining Good Hygiene
When your baby is teething, it is best to keep their mouth clean. After feeding, wipe their gums with a damp, soft cloth. When the teeth appear, use a baby toothbrush and water to brush gently. Pediatricians recommend starting dental care early to allow kids to get used to the process. You don’t need toothpaste initially –just brushing the teeth gently will do. In Marietta pediatrics, early dental hygiene is strongly encouraged to build healthy lifelong habits.
It is also important to clean toys, teething rings, and pacifiers, as they are putting these things in their mouth a lot. Cleaning them will help to prevent infections and keep your child healthy.
Conclusion
Teething is a regular but often tiring stage of development. It can be challenging, but on the bright side, it means your baby is growing up. Each tooth that comes in is a tiny step of advancement, and before you know it, that lovely baby smile will be full of bright little teeth.
