Drooling, irritability and tears can make teething an ordeal for parents and babies alike.
Although timing varies widely, babies often begin teething by about age 6 months.
The two bottom front teeth are usually the first to appear, followed by the two top front teeth.
Classic signs and symptoms of teething include:
- Drooling
- Chewing on solid objects
- Irritability or crankiness
- Sore or tender gums
Many parents suspect that teething causes fever and diarrhea, but researchers say this isn't true.
Teething can cause signs and symptoms in the mouth and gums — but not elsewhere in the body.
If your teething baby seems uncomfortable, consider these simple tips to relieve sore gums:
Rub your baby's gums. Use a clean finger, moistened gauze pad or damp washcloth to massage your baby's gums. The pressure can ease your baby's discomfort.
Offer a teething ring. Try one made of firm rubber. The liquid-filled variety might break under the pressure of your baby's chewing. If a bottle seems to do the trick, fill it with water. Prolonged contact with sugar from formula, milk or juice contributes to tooth decay.
Keep it cool. A cold washcloth or chilled teething ring can be soothing on a baby's gums. Don't give your baby a frozen teething ring, however. Contact with extreme cold can be harmful.
Try hard foods. If your baby is eating solid foods, you might offer something edible for gnawing, like peeled and chilled cucumber or carrot. Any pieces that break off might pose a choking hazard so keep a close eye.
Dry the drool. Excessive drooling is part of the teething process. To prevent skin irritation, keep a clean cloth handy to dry your baby's chin. Try an over-the-counter remedy.
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