There’s nothing better than your baby’s first smile! And we want to help you keep them smiling even through the often painful teething process. If your child’s baby teeth are starting to erupt through the gums, here are four things you might need to know.
1. Baby teeth can erupt anywhere from 3-14 months—every child is different!
If your child is nearing six months, you may begin to notices signs of teething, as this is when baby’s typically get their first tooth. However, if your baby doesn’t get their first tooth at this time, there’s no need to fret. Babies can begin the teething process anywhere between 3-14 months of age. If they haven’t gotten their first tooth when they reach their first birthday, however, the American Dental Association recommends bringing them in for a dental check-up. This will allow your dentist to check to see that their tooth development is on the right track!
2. There are a few signs you can look out for when it comes to teething.
Have you heard that teething can be accompanied by fever, diarrhea, and a runny nose? Don’t buy it— this is an old wives tale! Signs of teething typically include crankiness, difficulty sleeping, swollen gum tissue, aversion to eating or drinking, an urge to chew on solid objects, and persistent drooling. Your child may experience pain and tenderness as a result from teething for up to several weeks, or they could not experience any pain at all. Every child is different when it comes to their signs and symptoms.
3. If your child is experiencing teething pain, there are a few treatments you can try.
There are a few tried and true methods to alleviate teething pain, such as allowing them to chew on refrigerated teething rings or applying pressure on the gums with a clean finger. You might also consider purchasing over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as these pain medications come in a liquid form specifically for infants. Also, a comforting warm bath or gently rocking your baby can always help in a pinch.
4. It is important to get into the habit of cleaning your child’s mouth—even before their teeth erupt!
It is important to maintain your child’s oral health, even in the earliest months of their life. To do so, simply wet a clean washcloth and wipe off their teeth and gums. No need for toothpaste or a toothbrush here, as this process successfully wipes away the bacteria that could be lingering in their mouth. The next step in taking care of their oral health is to bring your baby to the dentist’s office by their first birthday. Your dentist will be able to give you helpful advice for maintaining the health of your child’s teeth and gums.
Is your child ready for their first dentist appointment? Call Advanced Family Dental & Orthodontics in today to book your visit. Our Frankfort, Shorewood and Lockport dentists are always ready to help!