How can you tell when your baby is teething? While teething symptoms can easily be mistaken as something else, there are a few telltale indicators that can help you determine if you’re dealing with teething rather than a common cold. Read along to know more about teething in babies here, mama!
A cranky, under-eating, and grumpy baby will drive any mama sick with worry. It’s easy to assume they have caught a cold or a nasty bug. This isn’t always the case, though. Sometimes, the sudden change in behavior that’s stressing many parents in the world is simply because of teething.
Teething, which is an exciting yet nerve-wracking milestone for any baby, is when a baby’s teeth first come through their gums. It’s an important part of their development, as teeth help your little one chew, speak, and even smile.
Teeth Eruption Timeline
Teething in babies can begin as early as 3 months, but it usually erupts between 4 and 7 months. The first teeth to come through are usually the central incisors, which are the two teeth at the bottom. You can refer to our chart below for a quick reference on when you can expect your baby’s teeth to come through.
If you think your child’s teeth eruption is a bit behind, know that it isn’t uncommon. According to Woodhill Dental Specialties, genetics, vitamin deficiencies, low birth weight or premature birth, and developmental disorders can be the reason why your baby’s teeth may be erupting late.
However, MedlinePlus recommends that you consult a pediatric dentist if your baby still has no teeth by 9 months of age.
How Do You Know When A Baby Is Teething? Here are 7 Symptoms To Look Out For
Teething in babies can be uncomfortable. And as much as we wish they could speak to us, it’s our job as mamas to observe them and watch for signs of discomfort or pain. So, how do you know when a baby is teething? Here are the clues!
- Doesn’t seem interested in eating solids. With a tooth coming through, expect a baby’s gums to be swollen or sore. As such, it’s expected that they would refuse to eat.
- Has a slightly raised temperature. While they may be warmer than usual, teething will not cause a fever.
- Drooling a lot. Babies will drool a lot during teething, so make sure you put on a bib or wipe their neck and chin regularly to prevent a rash from developing.
- Fussiness and irritability. Teething can be painful, which can cause irritability and crankiness in your little one. It’s particularly uncomfortable when it’s the first teeth and molars that are erupting!
- Trouble sleeping. Teething knows no time and can be uncomfortable round the clock, which can disrupt your baby’s sleep schedule.
- Gnawing on objects. From the remote control to their favourite toy, teething babies often gnaw on things to relieve their pain.
- Ear pulling and cheek rubbing. These two can also be a sign of teething in babies, as the pain can spread across the cheeks and ears. However, do note that ear pulling can also be a sign of an ear infection.
If your child is showing these signs, then they are probably going through teething. Keep in mind that these signs and symptoms often show on the day before and after a tooth erupts.
How To Soothe A Teething Baby
While teething pains are unavoidable, there are many ways to help your child feel more comfortable during this period. Here are some of the easy ways to soothe your teething baby.
1. Massage your baby’s gums
Massaging the baby’s gums can help soothe the itchiness they feel. You can use a clean finger to do this. Alternatively, you can use a finger toothbrush, which features a soft, ridged surface ideal for rubbing on a baby’s gums.
Besides being great for massaging the gums, it can also be used to clean your baby’s mouth.
2. Give them a teether
Instead of letting your gnaw on random objects that can be full of germs and dangerous, hand them a BPA-free teether so they have something safe to chew on.
Even better, you can place it inside the fridge first. A cool teether provides additional comfort, too!
3. Offer a healthy and cooling treat.
As mentioned above, something cool can help relieve soreness on their gums. If your baby is already eating solids, you can cut fruit and place it inside a fruit feeder.
This method not only soothes their discomfort but ensures they get a nutritious snack, too.
Be Ready For Teething With Mama’s Choice Baby Teething Package
Mama’s Choice understands the struggles that come with a teething baby. That’s why we’ve come up with the Mama’s Choice Baby Teething Package to ensure mamas have the essentials to help them (and their babies) through this stage!
Each package comes with a Finger Toothbrush, Food Feeder, and a Baby Teether. The Finger Toothbrush is great for cleaning a baby’s teeth and massaging gums. It also comes with a case for hygienic storage. The Food Feeder is just the right size for baby’s tiny fingers, so they can easily grasp it. Meanwhile, the Baby Teether is safe to be chilled in the fridge.
There’s no need to worry about your child’s safety because the Mama’s Choice Baby Teething Package is free of BPA, phthalates, latex, and lead!
Are you ready for when your baby’s teething troubles start? Click the banner below to get yours today or you can also find them at our official website and Lazada!
Mama's Choice Team
The Mama's Choice MY team is consisted of 4 beautiful mamas who are strong and dedicated in being the support system that many mamas need these days. <3
