When Teething Starts In Babies - Teething can be an exciting and challenging time for parents and babies alike. Most babies begin teething around 6 months, although some can start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. As a parent, it is essential to be aware of the signs of teething and how to ease your baby's discomfort during this time.
Signs of Teething
Crankiness
One of the most common signs of teething is crankiness. Your baby may become more fussy, irritable, and may cry more often than usual. This is a result of the discomfort that they are feeling in their gums.
Biting and Chewing
Another sign that your baby is teething is that they may start to bite and chew on everything they can get their hands on. This is a natural way for them to relieve the discomfort in their gums.
Excessive Drooling
If your baby is drooling more than usual, it could be a sign that they are teething. Excessive drooling is a result of the increased saliva production that occurs during teething.
Loss of Appetite
When your baby's gums are sore, they may not want to eat or drink as much as usual. This is normal and will typically only last for a few days.
How to Soothe Your Teething Baby
Cold and Pressure
One of the best ways to soothe your teething baby is to provide them with something cold to chew on. You can give them a chilled teething ring, a cold washcloth, or a frozen piece of fruit.
Pain Relief Medication
If your baby is in a significant amount of discomfort, you can give them pain relief medication, such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully and consult with your pediatrician before giving your baby any medication.
Gently Rubbing the Gums
You can also help to relieve your baby's discomfort by gently massaging their gums with a clean finger or a soft, damp cloth.
Teething Milestones During Baby's First Year
During your baby's first year, they will reach several important teething milestones.
4-7 Months
At around 4-7 months, your baby's two front bottom teeth will typically come in.
8-12 Months
Your baby's two front top teeth will usually come in between 8-12 months.
9-16 Months
Your baby's molars will typically come in between 9-16 months. These teeth are located at the back of the mouth and are used for grinding food.
13-19 Months
Between 13-19 months, your baby's canine teeth will typically come in. These teeth are located between the incisors and molars.
Tips and Ideas for Teething Relief
Teething Toys
Invest in a few different types of teething toys so that your baby has a variety of textures and shapes to chew on.
Cold Foods
You can also offer your baby cold foods to soothe their gums, such as chilled purees or smoothies.
Distraction
Offer your baby plenty of distractions during teething to help take their mind off of the discomfort they are feeling. Play games, read books, or take them for a walk outside.
Breast Milk Popsicles
If your baby is still breastfeeding, you can freeze breast milk into popsicles and offer them to your baby to help soothe their gums.
In Conclusion
Teething can be a challenging time for both parents and babies, but it is a natural part of the development process. By being aware of the signs of teething and how to soothe your baby, you can help make this time as comfortable as possible for both of you.
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