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What is teething?
It's something all babies have to go through. Teething actually is a process that begins even before your baby's first teeth start to appear. Babies usually start teething when they are 4 to 7 months old. Typically, the first teeth to come in are the two front bottom teeth. A month or two later, the front four upper teeth appear, followed by the two lower incisors about four weeks after that. Next, the first molars arrive, and then the eyeteeth. However, this is just a general range and many babies will have their teeth coming in earlier or later.
How will I know if my baby is teething?
Sometimes when a baby is teething, they will feel some discomfort. Some symptoms of teething include:
- Crying
- Running a low-grade temperature (below 100 degrees F)
- Drooling more than usual
- Irritability
- Biting and trying to chew on anything within reach
- Swelling along the gum line that is tender to your touch
How can I make my baby feel more comfortable?
Your baby may need some extra cuddles, and you can also try some of these tips to relieve your baby's discomfort:
- Wash and dry your hands. Then, using one of your fingers, rub your baby's gums softly.
- Many babies find teething rings made of a hard rubber soothing to chew on. (Teethers that are placed in the freezer can become too hard and may break. So they are not recommended.)
- Some babies enjoy chewing on a cold, dampened washcloth.
- Soft, cold foods such as applesauce or yogurt can be very appetizing to your baby and can offer some teething relief if old enough for solid foods.
How should I care for my baby's teeth?
Now that your baby's teeth are coming in, you will want to keep them clean and healthy by:
- Using a gauze pad to wipe the teeth after meals and at bedtime.
- Gently brushing the teeth with a baby toothbrush that has soft bristles.
- Not allowing your baby to go to sleep with a bottle.
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External Source
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The American Academy of Pediatrics
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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