Just at the point when you and your baby have settled into a comfortable routine, you are confronted with a new challenge: teething. Certain signs, such as drooling and chewing, appear to be associated primarily with teething. Appetite loss can also be a symptom. If you have any concerns about what might be causing such symptoms in your baby, contact your physician.
The Starting of Teething
The majority of babies begin teething before 6 months of age. Some will start as young as 3 months, others may wait almost 12 months to begin. The first teeth to come in, or erupt, are usually the two lower front teeth, followed by the two upper front teeth. Symptoms of teething may worsen as the larger teeth in the back begin to erupt, possibly due to the larger, blunter surface areas of the teeth which are breaking through. Most children are done with teething at around 24 months of age. Some children may have little discomfort teething, while others may have significant symptoms.
Symptoms
The most common sign is drooling. An infant can start drooling as much as three months prior to the eruption of the first baby tooth. In addition, irritability and crying due to the discomfort of teething may be apparent, as may be wakefulness. Prior to tooth eruption, the gums will swell and the need to chew to relieve the ache will be evident. Appetite loss may also occur with the discomfort. Many mothers will tell you that fever and diarrhea are also symptoms of teething -- some doctors do not agree with this, however. Talk to your physician if you have worries about any symptom your child has.
Cold Helps
Since swelling is the main source of discomfort for the teething child, offer him something cold to chew on. Buy a couple of firm rubber teething rings and keep them cold in the refrigerator but do not freeze. The cold will help soothe the ache, limit the swelling and allow the baby to chew to their heart's content. Another strategy is to rub the gums gently with an ice cube. Wrapping it with a clean piece of gauze or a wash cloth prior to use will help you keep a firm grip on it to prevent it from being swallowed. If your baby's appetite has decreased, try some of the strategies to make your infant more comfortable prior to feeding and also try cold foods and drinks.
Other Ways to Handle Teething Discomfort
In the absence of something cold, use your clean finger or wash cloth to massage the infant's gums. The gentle pressure can help ease the pain. The baby may also like a bottle with cool water. Offer this frequently between feedings to keep the baby hydrated. To prevent rash from excessive drooling wipe the baby's chin with a clean cloth. A bib will also help the baby's clothes stay clean. For the baby who is really cranky and uncomfortable, check with your physician for her advice. She may recommend an over-the-counter remedy such as children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Avoid aspirin.
For the child with no appetite, persist with offering food after you have tried to make her comfortable. If it lasts longer than a few days, call your physician.
