Teething Babies
Although newborns usually have no visible teeth, most have a partially developed set of primary teeth. A child's primary teeth, often referred to as "baby teeth," usually begin to appear during a process called “teething” when a baby is between age six months and one year. These baby teeth help children chew and speak. They also make space in the jaws for permanent teeth which are growing under the gums. It is important to realize that all babies are different and teething will occur at different times.
The American Dental Association recommends that a dentist examine your child within six months after the first tooth comes in and no later than their first birthday. This is an important time for a checkup, because aside from checking for tooth decay and other problems, your dentist can demonstrate how to clean your child’s baby teeth properly and how to evaluate any potentially detrimental habits, such as thumbsucking. Growing Smiles Chicago understands that care for your children’s teeth is critical and begins even when your child is very young.
The Teething Cycle: Common Traits, Symptoms and Remedies:
- During the teething cycle, some babies may become fussy, sleepless and irritable, and may lose their appetite or drool more than usual.
- Ailments such as diarrhea, rashes and a fever are not normal for a teething babies. If your infant has a fever or diarrhea while teething or continues to be cranky and uncomfortable, call your physician.
- Cysts may develop. The tooth will eventually rupture this watery sac as it pushes through the gums. Eruption cysts are usually harmless and ought to be left alone.
- When baby teeth first come in, some teething babies may have sore or tender gums. This soreness can be relieved by gently rubbing your child's gums with a clean finger, a small, cool spoon or a wet gauze pad, which can be soothing.
- Giving your baby a clean teething ring to chew on can help: this soft plastic device allows the baby to break down some of their gum tissue, which promotes the growth of the teeth out of the gum. If your child is still cranky and in pain, consult your dentist or physician.
- When the teeth begin to erupt, brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a little bit of water to prevent tooth decay. Toothpaste is not recommended until a child reaches age two. At that time, supervise brushing to ensure that your child does not swallow the toothpaste.
- The time to begin cleaning your baby's mouth is during the first few days after birth. After every feeding, wipe the baby's gums with a clean gauze pad. This process removes plaque and residual food that can harm emerging baby teeth
- As soon as baby teeth appear in the mouth, tooth decay can occur. To minimize this risk, brush your child’s baby teeth gently with a child's size toothbrush and water. Be sure they spit out the toothpaste and rinse with water.
Dealing with teething babies can be a stressful time for parents. Knowing the above information is a helpful way to prepare for this time and address any issues as they occur. Contact Growing Smiles Chicago for any information or checkups regarding your child and the care of their first set of teeth!