Teething is a natural part of a child’s development. While this stage is expected, it is not always easy to deal with and can often be challenging for the parents and the baby. It can be a frustrating period because teething generally causes discomfort that a baby must endure and this causes parents a lot of anxiety.
Knowing the facts and understanding the process can make a very big difference and can even help you reduce some of your child’s discomfort along with your own concerns. The following are a few things you should know for a more bearable experience:
The Duration Will Vary From One Baby To Another
It’s natural to wonder how long the teething period will last but the reality is that this aspect is different for everyone. Generally, children’s teeth start to erupt between six and nine months of age, although some children can start as early as three months and some as late as a year, so it is impossible to know how long this phase will last. By the age of three, most children will have all of their teeth.
Symptoms Of Teething Will Vary As Will Their Intensity
Drooling, a chin rash and the swelling of the gums are all common teething symptoms that most babies exhibit, as are biting, ear rubbing and irritability. These are all a normal part of the process once the teeth break through their gum line, and many parents also notice behavioural changes like disrupted sleep or a lack of appetite. For some babies, the symptoms will be minimal and may not affect their behaviour or routine. If the pain is intense, the symptoms can be worse, so this will vary from one baby to the next. It’s common for symptoms to increase roughly about four days before a tooth emerges through the gums and will continue for about three days afterwards.
Fevers, Rashes And Diarrhea Are Not Considered Normal Symptoms
If your baby experiences any of these, it may be a sign that they are dealing with another sickness or condition that can be hiding behind teething episodes. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is best to contact your paediatrician for an appointment so they can assess whether or not the child is dealing with something more serious.
Chilled Items Can Reduce A Child’s Discomfort
Allowing your child to chew on soft items that are chilled will help reduce their discomfort. Teething rings, wet washcloths or pacifiers can all be used to reduce swelling and pain but make sure they are cool and not frozen. You can also try massaging their gums with clean fingers to counteract the pressure from the erupting tooth.
Westney North Dental can answer all of your tooth related questions for patients of any age. We are a dental centre in Ajax and our reputable dentists can help improve your smile. Whether you need an emergency dentist, teeth cleaning or a routine check-up, we can help, so give us a call today!
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