Teething

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What is teething?

Teething is the normal process of new teeth working their way through the gums. Your baby's first tooth may appear any time between the time he is three months to one year old. Most children have completely painless teething. The only symptoms are increased saliva, drooling, and a desire to chew on things. Teething occasionally causes some mild gum pain, but it does not interfere with sleep. The degree of discomfort varies from child to child. Your child won't be miserable. When the back teeth (molars) come through , the overlying gum may become bruised and swollen. This is harmless and temporary.
Because teeth erupt almost continuously from six months to two years of age, many unrelated illnesses are blamed on teething. Fevers are also common during this time because after the age of six months, infants lose the natural protection provided by their mothers' antibiotics.

Which baby teeth come in first?

Your baby's teeth will usually erupt in the following order:

How can I take care of my child?

Gum Massage - Find the irritated or swollen gum. Massage it with your finger for two minutes. Do this as often as necessary. You may also massage the gum with a piece of ice.
Teething rings - Your baby's way of massaging his gums is to chew on a smooth, hard object. Solid teething rings and ones with liquid in the center (as long as it is purified water) are fine. Most children like them cold. A wet washcloth or banana chilled in the freezer for ten minutes will please many infants. Avoid ice, popsicles, or other frozen objects that could cause frostbite of the gums. Also avoid hard foods that he might choke on (like raw carrots). Teething biscuits are fine.
Diet - Avoid salty or acid foods. Your baby probably will enjoy sucking on a nipple, but if he complains, use a cup for fluids temporarily.
Acetaminophen or Motrin (if over six months of age)-If the pain increases, give acetaminophen, (Tylenol or Motrin) orally for one day. Special teething gels are unnecessary. Many teething gels contain benzocaine, which can cause an allergic reaction. If you want to use a gel, do not apply it more than four times a day.

Common myths about teething:

Teething probably does not cause fever, diarrhea, diaper rash, or lowered resistance to any infection. If your baby develops fever while teething, this fever is caused by something else.
Don't tie a teething ring around your baby's neck. It could catch on something and strangle your child. Attach it to your baby's clothing with a "catch-it-clip".

When should I call my child's health care provider?

Call during office hours if….