The appearance of your child's first tooth is a monumental moment in his development. But it doesn't come without a price. That debt is paid in the days leading to the tooth's surfacing from the gums, during which time your baby may be miserable from the pain he is experiencing. This can cause your child to lose his appetite and be disinterested in taking a bottle or other food. When this happens, take action to soothe your child's discomfort and encourage him to continue eating.
Teething Pain
Most children suffer some pain while teething. The gums swell and become very sensitive as the teeth try to break the surface. Drooling is common, and your child is likely to become irritable. Loss of appetite can happen when pain is severe, which can also disrupt your child's sleep.
Time Frame
Teeth can emerge in an infant as early as five months, according to the "British Dental Journal." The first teeth are usually the central incisors on the lower jaw, followed by upper central incisors between six and eight months. The rest of the incisors and canines should come in during the next nine to 20 months. Molars appear anytime from the first birthday to 30 months. As children age, their eating habits change, so teething pain could occur in children who have moved on to solid foods.
At-Home Treatment
Take steps to ease your baby's the teething pain, while encouraging her to eat. Cool milk, formula or other fluids, which may make them more comfortable to consume. Give your child ice chips to cool the gums and relieve the pain. Some children are soothed by parents massaging the gums with the index finger. Your child may also be receptive to feeding if you hold and rock him while he feeds. If your child has progressed to solid foods, serve cold items like yogurt or ice cream, which may be less painful and reduce pain in the gums.
Medication
Do not give medication for teething without the approval of a doctor. Your doctor will probably hold off on using medication until all other attempts to soothe your child fail. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are the medications commonly given to children to ease pain. Your doctor will give you the dosages and schedule for treating your child. Do not give your child more than the prescribed dosage even if the pain medication does not appear to yield any improvements.
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