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Teething is how babies develop and grow their primary teeth, also known as baby or milk teeth. It is a normal and necessary part of a baby’s development and typically begins around 6 months. However, teething can continue until a baby is about 3 years old; At this point, they will have developed a complete set of 20 primary teeth.
Babies may experience various symptoms during the teething process as their teeth emerge through the gums. These can include drooling, fussiness, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and a loss of appetite. Some babies may also have swollen or tender gums and may chew on objects to alleviate the pressure and discomfort. Parents must be patient and understanding during this time, as teething can be a trying experience for babies and their caregivers.
While teething is natural and normal, parents should monitor their baby’s health and well-being. If a baby is experiencing severe or prolonged symptoms or other concerns about their development, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
When Do Babies Start Teething?
Babies typically start teething around 6 months, although it is not uncommon for some babies to start teething as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. The timing of teething can vary significantly from baby to baby and is influenced by various factors such as genetics, diet, and overall health.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the average order and timing of primary teeth eruption are as follows:
- Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth): around 6-10 months
- Upper central incisors (top front teeth): around 8-12 months
- Lateral incisors (teeth beside the front teeth): around 9-13 months
- First molars (back teeth): around 13-19 months
- Canines (pointy teeth): around 16-22 months
- Second molars (back teeth): around 23-33 months
It is important to note that this is just a general guideline and that the timing of teething can vary significantly from one baby to another. Some babies may start teething earlier or later than these estimates, and the order in which teeth emerge may differ. If you have concerns about your baby’s teething, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
Symptoms of Teething
Babies may experience various symptoms during the teething process as their teeth emerge through the gums. These can include:
- Drooling: Babies may produce extra saliva as teeth push through the gums, increasing drooling. This is a common and typical symptom of teething.
- Irritability: Babies may become more fussy or irritable during teething due to the discomfort they are experiencing. They may also be more clingy or cry more than usual.
- Difficulty sleeping: Teething can cause discomfort and disrupt a baby’s normal sleep patterns. Babies may have trouble falling asleep or wake up more frequently at night due to teething.
- Loss of appetite: Some babies may lose their appetite or refuse to eat certain foods during teething due to soreness or swelling in the gums.
- Swollen or tender gums: As teeth emerge through the gums, the gums may become swollen or tender to the touch.
It is important to note that not all babies experience these symptoms, and some babies may not show noticeable signs of teething. In addition, every baby is different, and the severity and duration of teething symptoms can vary. Therefore, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider with concerns about your baby’s teething.
Tips For Managing Teething Symptoms
There are several ways that parents can help manage their baby’s teething symptoms and provide some relief:
- Offer a cold teething ring or washcloth: Cold temperatures can help numb the gums and reduce swelling and discomfort. A cold teething ring or a clean, damp washcloth chilled in the refrigerator can be a safe and effective way to soothe a baby’s gums.
- Use a firm rubber teething toy: A firm rubber teething toy can help massage the gums and provide some relief. Just supervise your baby closely and discard any toys that show signs of wear or damage.
- Try a gentle gum massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a soft, damp cloth can help soothe discomfort and reduce swelling.
- Offer a chilled, moistened cloth: A chilled, moistened cloth can relieve a baby’s swollen gums. Just be sure to wring the cloth well so it is not too wet.
Be cautious when using teething remedies, as some products may not be safe or effective. Teething gels, for example, can contain ingredients that may be harmful if ingested, and their effectiveness has been called into question by some healthcare providers. Therefore, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using any teething remedies and to follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
Conclusion
Teething is a normal and necessary part of a baby’s development and typically begins around 6 months of age. However, the timing of teething can vary from baby to baby and is influenced by various factors such as genetics, diet, and overall health. During the teething process, babies may experience various symptoms such as drooling, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and a loss of appetite. Some babies may also have swollen or tender gums and may chew on objects to alleviate the pressure and discomfort.
There are several ways that parents can help manage their baby’s teething symptoms and provide some relief, such as offering a cold teething ring or washcloth, using a firm rubber teething toy, trying a gentle gum massage, or offering a chilled, moistened cloth. However, be cautious when using teething remedies, as some products may not be safe or effective.
If you have concerns about your baby’s teething, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider for guidance. However, teething is a natural and normal process, and with patience and understanding, parents can help their babies through this challenging stage of development.
