When your child’s first teeth begin to erupt, this is an exciting milestone to celebrate! However, due to the nature of the eruption, your child will experience some discomfort during this time. This can be a challenge for both babies and parents alike. Fortunately, there are some tips and tricks out there to help you get through this time. Continue reading to learn more about teething pain and how you can help your child deal with it.
What Are the Signs That Your Baby Is Teething?
On average, the teething process begins at about six months of age. However, it can start earlier or later. Here are some common signs of teething to pick up on so you can provide the necessary comfort and care for your child:
- Increased drooling
- Irritability and fussiness
- Chewing on objects
- Swollen or tender gums
- Disrupted sleep patterns
5 Ways to Sooth Your Child’s Teething Pain
There are a variety of strategies parents have been using for many years to help their babies through teething. Here are some of the most successful methods:
- Teething Toys: Pick out some safe toys for your child to chew on. The pressure of chewing can help to relieve some of the pain and discomfort associated with teething.
- Cold Compress: Cold temperatures can help to numb sore gums and provide additional relief for your baby. To do this, try to offer a cold washcloth or a chilled teething ring for your baby to chew on.
- Massaging: By gently massaging your baby’s gums with your clean finger, you can help to ease some of their teething pain. Just be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after using this method.
- Over-the-Counter Medicine: If your baby is especially uncomfortable, it may be worthwhile to get an over-the-counter gel or pain reliever. Just be sure to consult with your pediatrician beforehand and closely follow the instructions for the product.
- Comforting Techniques: A little bit of extra comfort can go a long way with young children. Try to hold your baby close and softly talk or sing to them. This can help to ease some of their distress during teething.
Teething can be a challenging time for babies and parents, but by taking all the right steps, you can help ease your baby’s discomfort and make the process that much smoother!
About the Practice
At The Dental Specialists Pediatric Dentistry, we have a team of three skilled pediatric dentists serving even the smallest patients in Garland. With their combined experience and expertise, your child can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child, visit our website or call (972) 364-7472.