Common Teething Symptoms and Remedies: What Every Parent Should Know

Teething is a major milestone in a baby’s life, but it can also be a challenging time for both the baby and the parents. As a cosmetic dentist and doctor with a deep passion for aesthetic medicine, I’ve seen firsthand how teething can affect a child’s overall well-being. Living in Istanbul, Turkey, with my rescue cat Luna, I’ve embraced the city’s vibrant cultural scene, and I often find myself discussing teething remedies with fellow parents. So, let’s dive into the common symptoms of teething and some effective remedies to help your little one through this phase.

When my niece started teething, it was a rollercoaster of emotions. One moment she was happy and playful, the next she was crying inconsolably. It was during this time that I realized the importance of understanding teething symptoms and having a go-to list of remedies. At DC Total Care, we strive to provide not just dental care but also valuable information to make your parenting journey smoother.

Teething can start as early as 3 months and continue until the child is about 3 years old. It’s a long journey, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can make it a lot easier for your baby. So, let’s get started!

Common Teething Symptoms

Drooling

One of the first signs of teething is excessive drooling. You might notice your baby’s clothes are always wet, or they have a constant rash around the mouth and chin. This is because the salivary glands are working overtime to produce saliva, which helps to soothe the gums.

Biting and Gnawing

Babies will often bite and gnaw on anything they can get their hands on, including their own fingers. This is their way of trying to relieve the pressure and discomfort in their gums. It’s important to provide them with safe objects to chew on, such as teething rings or clean washcloths.

Irritability and Crying

Teething can be quite uncomfortable, and it’s not uncommon for babies to be more irritable and cry more than usual. Some babies might also have trouble sleeping at night due to the discomfort. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider providing extra cuddles and comfort during this time.

Swollen Gums

When a tooth is about to erupt, the gums can become swollen and red. You might even see a small lump on the gum where the tooth is trying to break through. I’m torn between recommending a cold compress or a teething gel, but ultimately, both can provide some relief.

Change in Eating Habits

Some babies might refuse to eat or drink due to the discomfort in their mouths. Others might want to nurse or feed more frequently for comfort. It’s important to be patient and offer them food and drinks often.

Ear Pulling and Cheek Rubbing

Babies might pull on their ears or rub their cheeks when they’re teething. This is because the pain from the gums can sometimes radiate to these areas. Maybe I should clarify that it’s important to rule out an ear infection if your baby is pulling on their ears frequently.

Mild Fever

Some babies might experience a mild fever when they’re teething. This is usually nothing to worry about, but if the fever is high or persists for more than a few days, it’s a good idea to consult with a pediatrician.

Diarrhea

Teething can sometimes cause loose stools or diarrhea. This is thought to be due to the excess saliva that babies swallow when they’re teething. It’s important to keep your baby hydrated during this time.

Rash

The excess drooling can cause a rash around the mouth and chin. It’s important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent irritation. You can use a soft cloth to gently wipe the drool away.

Coughing and Gagging

The excess saliva can also cause your baby to cough or gag. This is usually nothing to worry about, but if it’s causing your baby distress, it’s a good idea to talk to your pediatrician.

Effective Teething Remedies

Teething Rings

Teething rings can provide a safe outlet for your baby’s need to chew. Look for ones that are solid and made of rubber, as liquid-filled rings can break and leak. You can also try chilling the ring in the fridge for extra soothing relief.

Cold Washcloth

A clean, cold washcloth can be a great teething remedy. Simply wet the washcloth, wring it out, and put it in the fridge to chill. Once it’s cold, give it to your baby to chew on. The cold temperature can help numb the pain and the texture can provide relief from the pressure.

Gum Massage

Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help relieve some of the discomfort. Make sure your hands are clean and your fingernails are short to avoid hurting your baby’s gums.

Teething Gels

Teething gels can provide temporary relief from teething pain. Look for gels that contain a mild anesthetic or natural ingredients like chamomile or clove. It’s important to follow the instructions on the package and not to use too much.

Pain Relievers

If your baby is in a lot of discomfort, you can give them a small dose of a pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Always follow the dosage instructions on the package and consult with your pediatrician before giving your baby any medication.

Cold Foods

If your baby is eating solids, cold foods can provide some relief. Try giving them chilled yogurt, applesauce, or pureed fruits. You can also try giving them cold water in a sippy cup.

Distraction

Sometimes, the best remedy is simply to distract your baby from the discomfort. Try playing with them, reading to them, or going for a walk. The change of scenery can help take their mind off the pain.

Extra Cuddles

Teething can be a uncomfortable time for babies, and they might need some extra comfort and reassurance. Don’t hesitate to give your baby plenty of cuddles and kisses during this time.

Amber Teething Necklaces

Some parents swear by amber teething necklaces, which are believed to release a natural pain reliever when warmed by the baby’s body heat. However, it’s important to note that there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. If you do decide to try an amber necklace, make sure to supervise your baby while they’re wearing it to prevent choking or strangulation.

Homeopathic Remedies

There are also homeopathic remedies available that can help with teething pain. Look for remedies that contain ingredients like chamomilla, calcarea phosphorica, or calcarea carbonica. Again, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician before giving your baby any medication.

When to See a Doctor

While teething can cause some discomfort, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. If your baby has a high fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, or if they seem to be in a lot of pain, it’s a good idea to talk to your pediatrician. Also, if your baby’s teeth don’t seem to be coming in evenly or at all, it might be a good idea to consult with a dentist.

Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one might not work for another. It’s important to be patient and try different remedies until you find what works best for your baby. And don’t forget, this phase won’t last forever! Before you know it, your baby will have a mouth full of beautiful teeth.

FAQ

Q: When do babies usually start teething?
A: Babies usually start teething around 6 months of age, but it can start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.

Q: How long does teething last?
A: Teething can last for several months, as each tooth erupts one at a time. The entire process can take up to 3 years.

Q: Can teething cause a fever?
A: Teething can cause a mild fever, but if the fever is high or persists for more than a few days, it’s a good idea to consult with a pediatrician.

Q: What are the best remedies for teething pain?
A: Some effective remedies for teething pain include teething rings, cold washcloths, gum massage, teething gels, pain relievers, cold foods, distraction, extra cuddles, amber teething necklaces, and homeopathic remedies.

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