Everything you need to know about baby teething
Teething is a fundamental and natural part of your baby’s development, and it can begin long before they grow their first tooth. Although uncomfortable and difficult, it’s an important phase in their growth! The good news is that there are lots of tips and tricks to help ease the transition from gums to teeth. Read on for our full baby teething guide!
When do babies start teething?
The first tooth can come at different times for each baby! Typically, you can expect to see a tooth or two around 4-7 months of age. However, if your little one still doesn’t have any teeth by 9 or 10 months, don’t panic. Your child should have a full set of teeth by age 3, no matter when they get their first one. Some babies are even born with a few teeth already! If you are concerned, be sure to talk to your pediatrician. Remember, there is no right or wrong baby teething age! To be safe, prepare yourself for your little one to start exhibiting teething behaviors as early as 3 or 4 months.
Baby teething signs and symptoms
Just like the timing of new infant teeth coming in, baby teething symptoms will also vary depending on the baby. Some of the most common signs include:
Irritability
Teething Rash
Crying
Refusing to eat
Drooling
Coughing
Biting and Gnawing
Low Grade Fever
Cheek Rubbing and Ear Pulling
Diarrhea
Gum Hematoma
Be sure to watch out for these signs to know when to bring in some remedies! And if you notice any serious symptoms such as a high fever or vomiting, don’t hesitate to call your care provider.
What order do baby teeth come in?
Although the exact age teeth begin to come in does vary, the order of teeth coming in generally stays the same. Usually the first ones to appear are the lower middle — giving them that adorable toothy smile! Next you’ll see the upper middle teeth, making that adorable smile even cuter somehow. From there, it usually starts with the upper and lower lateral incisors (the teeth just to the outside of the middle) and continues back from there all the way to their molars!
How to soothe a teething baby
Teething is hard, and sometimes you’ll do just about anything to get some relief. Luckily, there are some tried and true methods for providing baby some comfort while they grow their chompers.
Teething toys
One of the best ways to soothe baby teething is to use toys intended to do just that! These come in all different varieties to suit your little one, while helping soothe them through the pressure applied to their teeth. Be sure to avoid teething necklaces or bracelets, as these can present a choking hazard.
Cold temperatures
A cold washcloth, spoon, or frozen teething toy can do wonders for your little one’s gums. Try using frozen food such as a cold slice of cucumber for a yummy treat, just be sure to always supervise them.
Soothing your teething baby at night
In addition to teething toys and other remedies, try massaging baby’s gums with your finger, or a damp gauze pad. This will help provide relief and can help soothe them to sleep. You can also press and hold on their gums, allowing the pressure to relieve some of the pain. Another great option is to use a white noise machine, to help distract them from the discomfort they may be feeling in their mouth. With all of these remedies combined, baby (and you!) will hopefully be in for a restful night’s sleep!
Distractions
Helping your little one keep occupied will allow them to focus on something other than their teeth. Pull out all the most fun toys, go for a walk, play in the yard, anything that helps keep them busy!
Your baby getting their first tooth is something to celebrate. We know how tough this time can be, but it goes by fast, so don’t forget to slow down and enjoy all the moments you can! Doona is here to provide parenting tips that will help you through any stage. Plus, we work hard to create collections and accessories that are smart and convenient, so you’ve got one less thing to worry about during these trying teething times!
