5 Tips to Help Your Baby Tolerate Teething
Teething is a tough time for tots. Babies' first teeth usually appear around six months after birth, although some start to show signs of teeth breaking through as young as three months. By the time your child is three years old, they will probably have a full set of twenty primary teeth. While your infant is teething, they may cry more than usual as their gums are sore. Here are a few things you can try to ease the discomfort.
1. Give Babies Something to Chew
Chewing on a teething ring can encourage tots' teeth to break through the gums. If you put the teething ring in the fridge before you give it to your child, the cold will feel extra soothing on their gums. Don't give any objects to your baby that aren't designed for infants, as they could choke.
2. Try Teething Gels
Pharmacies offer a variety of medicinal products to help kids tolerate teething. These gels contain mild painkillers to soothe discomfort in the gums. Do not use oral gels designed for adults, as these may contain medicines that are not suitable for kids. For example, some medicines for adults contain aspirin, which is dangerous for babies. Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or dentist for advice if you are not sure which product to use.
3. Rub Your Baby's Gums
Rubbing your baby's gums with a cold, damp cloth can help to ease the pain of teething. This simple action also helps to keep your baby's mouth clean by removing traces of food or milk. Cleaning your baby's gums and teeth regularly is important to keep them healthy and free from infections and decay.
4. Use Medications If Necessary
Some kids need a little extra help with teething. If your child shows signs of pain, such as crying and pulling on the ear on the same side as the tooth that is coming through, infant paracetamol is a suitable medication to help them settle. Never exceed the stated dose with this medication, as it can cause liver problems in high doses. Ibuprofen is also an option for babies older than three months, although it sometimes causes stomach upsets as a side effect.
5. Know When to Consult Your Dentist or Doctor
When your baby's first tooth appears, it is a good idea to take them to the dentist for a checkup. You can also consult your dentist if you can't work out how to soothe a teething baby, as they might be able to give advice that can help. If your teething child has a fever, you need to see your doctor as they may have an infection or illness in addition to the normal aches and pains of teething.