Teething is a normal part of early childhood that can begin as early as 3 months or as late as 18 months. Some babies are hardly bothered by teething, while other babies experience serious discomfort. Once teething begins, expect one tooth per month to appear until all 20 teeth have come in. Treat normal teething discomfort with measures intended to reduce pain and swelling or distract and comfort your little one.
Cold Relief
Sucking on cold, soft objects can help relieve the pain associated with teething. Cut bananas or pears into long sticks and freeze them. Allow your child to suck on the frozen fruit or try frozen ice pops or frozen bagels. Place a damp washcloth in the freezer for 30 minutes or put teething rings in the refrigerator to chill them. Do not tie teething rings around your child's neck because it could create a choking hazard.
Over-the-Counter Medications
If your child experiences a fever with teething, or if teething affects your child's ability to sleep and eat, offer acetaminophen to relieve the pain. Ibuprofen is also safe to use for infants over 6 months of age. An over-the-counter antihistamine may reduce swelling and help your child to sleep. Homeopathic remedies for teething are also generally considered safe and effective. Consult a physician before giving your baby any medications and do not use teething gels. Teething gels are usually ineffective, and it's easy to overdo it.
Distraction and Comfort
Sometimes the best remedy is just your loving attention. Rock the child, read books or go for a walk to distract him from the pain of teething. Take baby for a car ride to lull him to sleep. Add a few drops of lavender oil to a bath to soothe restlessness.
Concerns
Children normally may run a fever below 101 degrees Fahrenheit, have a runny nose, experience increased drooling, irritability or even diaper rash or diarrhea while teething. Consult your pediatrician, though, if your baby's fever is higher than 101 or if your child is inconsolable after you've offered the various comfort measures. Increased congestion and mucus production while teething may cause ear infections, according to Dr. Jerry Rubin, author of "Naturally Healthy Kids."
References
- "Naturally Healthy Kids"; Jerry Rubin, M.D., et al.; 2006
- AskDr.Sears.com: Teething
