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Teething |
You may be surprised to learn that teeth actually start developing while your baby is in the womb, when tooth buds form in the gums. The vast majority of babies sprout their first teeth when they're between 5 and 7 months of age. An early developer may get her/his first white cap as early as 4 months, while it is not uncommon for some babies to wait until they are a year old or more.
Whenever the first tooth makes its appearance, celebrate the milestone by noting the date. They may not all come in straight, but don't worry - they usually straighten out over time. The last teeth to appear (the second molars, found in the very back of the mouth on the top and bottom) have usually begun coming into place by your baby's second birthday. By age 3, your child should have a full set of 20 baby teeth, which shouldn't fall out until her/his permanent teeth are ready to start coming in, around age 6.
 Symptoms
Many parents feel that teething makes babies experience discomfort (though some babies get through the process with no problems at all). The symptoms most likely to trouble include:
| 1. |
Drooling (which can lead to a facial rash) |
| 2. |
Gum swelling and sensitivity |
| 3. |
Irritability or fussiness |
| 4. |
Biting and related behavior |
| 5. |
Refusing food |
| 6. |
Sleep problems |
Experts disagree about whether teething actually causes symptoms - like fussiness, diarrhoea, and fever - or whether these common symptoms are not related to teething at all and just coincidentally appear at the same time as emerging teeth. Regardless, though many parents report that their babies have loose stools, runny nose or fever just before a new tooth arrives, most experts don't think teething is to blame for these symptoms. Such symptoms are probably due to an infection unrelated to teething, but that the stress associated with teething could make your child more vulnerable to infection right before a new tooth appears.
Easing your baby's discomfort
| 1. |
For temporary relief rub a clean finger gently over your baby's sore gums |
| 2. |
Give your child something to chew on, such as a clean, cold washcloth or a firm rubber teething ring |
| 3. |
If your baby is old enough to eat solids, he may also get some relief from cold foods, as another time-honored trick |
| 4. |
If drool causes a rash on your baby's face; wipe, but don't rub, the drool away with a soft cotton cloth. You can also smooth a small amount of petroleum jelly on the chin before a nap or bedtime to protect the skin from further irritation. |
| 5. |
Check with your doctor before giving your baby any medication. Never give your baby aspirin or even rub it on his gums to ease the pain. The use of aspirin in children may and can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition. Rubbing the gums with topical pain relief gel is another option, as they are generally safe to use, but can cause an allergic reaction. |
Oral Care
In the early years when the baby diet is primarily milk, it is very essential to keep clean. Mothers may use a soft cloth to clean the gum of the infants with water. As teeth appear- along with brushing techniques, the importance of diet should be explained for healthy teeth and alternatives to sweets, sugary biscuits and fizzy drinks should be made available.
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