What is Teething..?
A hot topic among many new parents, teething is the process by which an infant's teeth sequentially appear in the mouth. The typical time frame for teething to begin is usually between six and nine months, although it may start as early as three months or as late as twelve months in some cases.
Most children have all 20 of their primary teeth by the age of three. Typically, although not invariably, the two lower front teeth tend to erupt first, followed by the two upper front teeth. The first molars come in next, followed by the canines (eyeteeth).
What You Can Expect ?
Many parents recognize the following signs: Irritability, Biting and gnawing, Gum swelling, Chin (facial) rash, Disrupted sleeping patterns, Ear rubbing, Drooling, Decreased appetite.
Although most infants make it through the teething process without much discomfort, occasionally it can be considerable. Even if there is no discomfort you can expect a child to exhibit some of the classic signs and symptoms associated with teething. For example, don't be surprised if your baby's gums become swollen or if she begins to drool more than usual as tooth eruption triggers excess saliva production. Biting or chewing on anything she can get her hands on to alleviate or stimulate the process is quite common. She may also start to wake up frequently during the night. These symptoms are usually most prevalent during the week that the tooth or teeth actually begin to break through the gums, starting about four days before the event and lasting about three days after a tooth finally appears.
While there is some controversy, most sources agree that diarrhea, rashes and fever are not normal for a teething baby. If your infant has a fever or diarrhea while teething or continues to be cranky and uncomfortable, visit your pediatrician. Evaluation is necessary to rule out a systemic (general body) cause for the illness.
How You Can Help Keep Her Comfortable
Here are some other remedies that may help reduce the irritation your baby is experiencing in her mouth:
Teething rings — The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends parents use a clean, chilled, rubber teething ring, or cold wet washcloth for teething babies.
Chilled pacifiers — These are also helpful. Be careful not to freeze teething rings or pacifiers, as ice can burn if left in place too long.
Gum massage — Massaging inflamed gums with your clean finger may be helpful to counteract the pressure from an erupting tooth.
Cold foods — When your youngster is old enough, cold foods like popsicles may soothe sore gums, but confine them to mealtimes because sugars can cause decay.
Over-the-counter medicine — zytee gel
It's a phase every baby goes through, although it's though but try to be a little strong. Discomfort to baby due to teething should be tolerated boldly and we should aim at avoiding medicines like crocin or calcarea phos.
Happy Parenting ..!
