When Do Babies Start Teething? is a current question in new parents. Every parent eagerly awaits their baby’s first tooth, but the process of teething can be a challenging time for both the baby and the parents. Understanding the signs and timeline of your baby’s teething can help you better support your little one during this developmental milestone.
What is Teething?
Teething is a natural and necessary process that every child goes through as they develop their first set of teeth and is the process by which a baby’s teeth sequentially emerge through the baby’s gums. also known as primary teeth or baby teeth. This process can be both exciting and challenging, marking a significant milestone in a child’s growth while also potentially causing some discomfort.
What are Common Teething Signs and Symptoms?
Teething is a significant milestone in a baby’s life, but it can often be accompanied by discomfort and distress. As a parent or caregiver, understanding the various baby teething symptoms and common signs and symptoms of teething can help you better support your little one during this time. Here are some of the most common teething signs and symptoms:
Drooling
One of the first signs of teething is often an increase in drooling. The body produces extra saliva to lubricate the tender and swollen gums.
Chewing on Objects
The pressure of baby teeth pushing through the gums can be quite uncomfortable. Babies often try to alleviate this pressure by chewing on their fingers, toys, or anything else they can get their hands on.
Irritability and Discomfort
Teething can cause a lot of discomforts, leading to fussiness and irritability. This can be particularly noticeable in the week leading up to the tooth’s appearance.
Swollen, Tender Gums
The area around the emerging tooth can become swollen and tender. Sometimes, you may even be able to feel the tooth below the gum.
Sleep Disruptions
The discomfort of teething can interfere with a baby’s sleep. They may have trouble falling asleep or wake up frequently due to the pain.
Refusing Food
The pressure in a baby’s mouth may make eating uncomfortable, leading to a decrease in appetite or refusal to eat.
Teething Rash
The constant drooling associated with teething can cause chafing, chapping, redness, and rashes around the baby’s mouth, chin, and even the baby’s neck and chest.
Ear Pulling and Cheek Rubbing
Babies whose teeth are coming in may tug at their ears or rub their cheeks or chins. This is because the baby or child’s teeth, gums, ears, and cheeks share nerve pathways.
Mild Temperature Increase
While teething can cause a slight increase in body temperature, a high fever is not typically associated with teething and could be a sign of illness.
Remember, every baby is unique, and not all babies will experience all these symptoms. If your baby seems particularly uncomfortable or their symptoms are severe or cause you concern, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.
The Teething Timeline: When Do Babies Start Teething?
While the exact timing of first teeth gets can vary, most babies start teething around six months of age. However, it’s not uncommon for teething to begin as early as three months or as late as one year.
In what Order Do Baby Teeth Come In?
Understanding the order in which baby teeth appear can help parents know what to expect as their child goes through the teething process. While the exact timing can vary from child to child, baby teeth typically appear in a predictable order:
Lower Central Incisors
The first teeth to emerge are usually the lower central incisors, the two bottom front teeth. This typically happens between 6 to 10 months of age.
Upper Central Incisors
Next, the upper central incisors, the two top front teeth, make their appearance. These usually come in between 8 to 12 months.
Upper and Lower Lateral Incisors
The lateral incisors, which are the teeth next to the central incisors, usually come in next. The upper lateral incisors generally appear between 9 to 13 months, while the lower lateral incisors come in between 10 to 16 months.
First Molars
The first molars, which are the larger teeth towards the back of the mouth, typically emerge between 13 to 19 months. These are important for grinding food.
Canines (Cuspids)
The sharp, pointed teeth called canines or cuspids usually come in between 16 to 23 months. These teeth are located next to the lateral incisors and are crucial for tearing food.
Second Molars
The second molars are usually the last to appear, typically between 23 to 33 months. These teeth are at the very back of the mouth and are important for grinding food.
By the age of three, most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth. It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the exact timing can vary. Some children may get their teeth earlier or later than the typical range. If you have any concerns about your child’s teething timeline, it’s always a good idea to consult with a pediatrician or a pediatric dentist.
Should We Brush Our Baby’s Teeth and Baby’s Gums?
maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for your baby’s overall health, and this should start even before the first tooth appears. Before teething begins, you can clean your baby’s gums with a soft, moistened washcloth or a piece of gauze to remove bacteria and sugars. Once the first tooth emerges, it’s time to start brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants. Initially, you can use just water and a toothbrush to gently clean the teeth twice a day.
As your child grows and more teeth appear, you can introduce fluoride toothpaste into their routine. From the age of two, use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice, to help prevent tooth decay and reverse early decay. However, be sure to use a minimal amount to prevent your child from swallowing too much fluoride.
In addition to daily brushing, regular dental check-ups are an essential part of your child’s oral health. It’s recommended to schedule your child’s first dental visit when their first tooth appears, or no later than their first birthday. By setting a positive example and making brushing a fun and routine part of your child’s day, you can help establish good oral hygiene habits that will last a lifetime.
How to Soothe a Teething Baby
Teething Rings and Toys
Teething rings and teething toys can provide relief by giving your baby something safe to chew on. Choose ones made from solid rubber, and avoid those filled with liquid as they can leak.
Cold Food and Drinks
Cold food and drinks can help numb the gums and teeth and provide temporary relief from teething symptoms. Try giving your baby a cold teething ring or a cold, wet washcloth to chew on. You can offer your baby a bottle of cold water (for babies over 6 months old) or chilled, ice-free water in a cup. Refrigerated treats such as yogurt, blended peaches, and applesauce can also be more appetizing than room-temperature snacks. Also, Applying cold to your baby’s inflamed and sore gums can help relieve the pain of teething.
Pain relievers
If other methods aren’t working, and especially if teething is keeping your baby up at night, talk to your pediatrician. You’ll likely get the okay to use baby acetaminophen (if the baby is over 2 months) or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months). Be sure to follow the dosing instructions exactly.
When to Consult a Pediatrician
While teething can cause a low-grade fever and loose stools in some babies, these symptoms are more likely to be caused by a virus or an infection. If your baby has a low-grade temperature for more than three days or if the fever is higher or accompanied by other troublesome symptoms, you should let your doctor know. Also report any liquidy, runny stool if it lasts for more than two bowel movements, or if your baby refuses to feed for more than twice a day.
Also, if your baby hasn’t started teething by their first birthday, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician to ensure there are no underlying issues.
What Milestones Will the Baby Hit Next?
Teething usually begins close to the start of some other pretty big baby milestones. Around the time your child’s first tooth erupts, you’ll likely be ready to start him on solids. In a few months, your baby’s fine motor skills will develop, which means he’ll soon be able to pick up and chew finger foods all on his own!
In conclusion, Teething is a significant milestone in your baby’s life. While it can be a challenging time, understanding the process and knowing how to provide relief can make it more manageable. Remember, every baby is unique, and the most common teething symptoms and timeline can vary. Always consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can teething cause a fever in my baby?
What are the first signs of teething?
Can my baby start teething at three months?
What can I give my baby for teething pain?
What if my baby hasn't started teething by their first birthday?
All Things Childcare strives to provide research-based information. While the contents of this article have been fact-checked, we encourage our readers to seek actual medical advice from health professionals.
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