ALL ABOUT TEETHING, WHAT EVERY PARENT SHOULD KNOW, SYMPTOMS AND REMEDIES!

October 25, 2024

Teething is a significant milestone in your baby's development, marking the transition from infancy to toddlerhood. While it’s a natural process, it can be challenging for both babies and parents, and it can also be a source of discomfort and distress. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding teething, its symptoms, remedies, and more.

What is Teething?

Teething refers to the process of primary teeth (baby teeth) erupting through the gums. This typically begins around six months of age, although it can start as early as three months or as late as twelve months. Most children will have all 20 primary teeth by the age of three.

Signs and Symptoms of Teething

Teething can cause various symptoms, which may vary from child to child. Common signs include:

1. Drooling: An increase in saliva production is common.
2. Biting and Chewing: Babies may gnaw on their toys or fingers to relieve discomfort.
3. Irritability: Teething can make babies fussy and irritable.
4. Swollen Gums: Gums may appear red and swollen where the teeth are emerging.
5. Sleep Disturbances: Babies may have trouble sleeping due to discomfort.
6. Loss of Appetite: Some babies may refuse to eat or drink because of gum pain.

Teething Timeline

While every baby is different, the following timeline outlines the typical order and age range for tooth eruption:

- 6-12 months: Central incisors (front teeth)
- 9-16 months: Lateral incisors (next to the front teeth)
- 13-19 months: First molars (back teeth)
- 16-23 months: Canines (pointy teeth)
- 25-33 months: Second molars (further back)

Remedies for Teething Discomfort

While teething is a natural process, it can be uncomfortable for babies. Here are some remedies that may help:

1. Teething Rings: Chilled (not frozen) teething rings can provide relief. Opt for natural rubber or silicone teething rings. You can refrigerate them for added relief. The soft texture can help massage sore gums while providing comfort.

2. Cold Washcloths: A clean, damp washcloth can be chilled in the refrigerator and given to your baby to chew on. The cold helps numb the gums and reduce inflammation. Just make sure it’s not frozen, as extreme cold can be harmful.

3. Gum Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger may provide comfort. This can help soothe sore areas and can bring comfort during particularly rough moments.

4. Pain Relief Medications: Consult your pediatrician about appropriate over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

5. Distraction: Sometimes, engaging your baby in play can help distract them from the discomfort. Singing, playing peekaboo, or using toys that stimulate their senses can make a difference.

6. Cold Foods/Frozen Fruits: If your baby has started on solids, consider offering frozen fruits like bananas or peaches in a mesh feeder. The coldness will help numb the gums, and the texture will provide a satisfying chewing experience.If your baby is eating solids, consider offering cold foods like yogurt or applesauce to help soothe their gums.

7. Chamomile Tea: Chamomile has calming properties that can ease irritability. Brew a weak chamomile tea, let it cool, and offer a small amount with a spoon or bottle. Always consult your pediatrician before introducing any new foods or drinks.

8. Herbal Remedies: Herbal remedies such as teething gels made from natural ingredients can provide relief. Look for products containing safe, organic herbs like chamomile or calendula. Always check with your pediatrician to ensure safety.

9. Warm Baths: A warm bath can help relax your baby and reduce irritability. The warmth can be soothing, providing a comforting environment during this stressful time.

10. Breastfeeding: If you're breastfeeding, comfort nursing can also provide relief. The act of breastfeeding can soothe your baby and provide emotional comfort.

When to Consult a Pediatrician

Teething is usually a straightforward process, but some symptoms may warrant a visit to the doctor. While natural remedies can be effective, it’s essential to monitor your baby’s symptoms closely. If your baby experiences any of the symptom's bellow contact your pediatrician for guidance.

- High fever (above 101°F)
- Persistent diarrhea
- Rash that doesn’t improve
- Severe irritability that doesn’t respond to typical remedies

Tips for Parents

1. Stay Calm: Your baby can sense your stress, so try to remain calm and comforting.
2. Keep Everything Clean: Maintain hygiene by cleaning teething toys regularly.
3. Be Prepared: Have teething remedies handy, especially during peak teething phases.

Teething is a natural part of your baby's growth, and while it can be challenging, understanding the process can help ease the burden. Each child experiences teething differently, so be patient and try various remedies to see what works best for your little one. By exploring natural remedies, you can provide your little one with comfort and relief during this milestone. Remember, if you have any concerns about your baby's teething process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for guidance.

Surviving the Teething Phase: My Journey as a first time Mom

Teething is often described as a rite of passage for both babies and parents, but during my daughter's teething phase, it felt more like a challenging endurance test. The sleepless nights and constant fussiness were tough, and I often found myself wishing for a magic solution to ease her discomfort.

From the moment her first tooth began to push through, it was clear that my little one was not going to go through this process quietly. She was visibly uncomfortable, and as a parent, it was heart-wrenching to see her struggle. I quickly learned that teething could be a very stressful time for both of us.

To help soothe her aching gums, I turned to Teeth Tamer for teething and toothaches by Earthley. Rubbing it on her gums provided some temporary relief. It was a small victory when it seemed to help, but I knew I needed more options in my arsenal. The Camilia drops didn't help much at all.

Chewing toys quickly became our go-to tools. The ring-shaped chew toys and even some of her keys became her best friends during this tough time. I also tried giving her frozen fruit to gnaw on. It worked wonders for a fleeting moment, providing her with a brief distraction from the discomfort. However, I soon realized that these methods offered only short-term relief.

After a few weeks of trial and error, I turned to medication. Motrin became our saving grace as recommended by her pediatrician. It was the only thing that seemed to genuinely alleviate her pain, even Tylenol didn’t do much for her. It was a relief to finally find something that worked, but I felt a mix of emotions—thankfulness for the relief and guilt for having to rely on medication.

Despite the challenges, this phase eventually passed. Now, looking back at those teething days, I feel a sense of pride in how we navigated through it together. Today, my daughter has all 20 of her teeth, and the memories of sleepless nights and cranky days have faded into the background.

If you're a parent currently facing the trials of teething, know that you're not alone. It's a tough journey, but with patience, a variety of remedies, and a lot of love, you will get through it. Just remember to take care of yourself too, after all, a well-rested parent is better equipped to handle the challenges of parenthood!

With Love and Best Wishes,

Mommy, Me and Beyond Team