It can be an uncomfortable time for your baby while they are teething, so we have put together some answers to common questions so you can be best prepared to comfort your little one.
Teething feels different for everyone, you may even remember the feeling of your wisdom teeth coming through and you can imagine that is what it feels like for your child.
What age will babies get their first teeth?
On average your baby will get their first tooth at around 6 months old, but it could be as young as three months. Be aware that if your baby was premature, as their teeth will likely take longer to develop.
How long does it last?
When one tooth comes through it will last approximately 3 days, but as there are many different teeth that come through at similar times, the frequency and the feeling will vary. It can also take longer for some babies. You should expect teething to be completely over when your baby is 2 or 3.
Is teething always painful?
Teething is often associated with pain but it is not necessarily the same for every baby. Everyone will tolerate it differently and younger babies will often struggle more as they are not used to the process.
What are the symptoms I should be aware of?
Symptoms present differently for every child, but here are some general ones you can learn to recognise.
- Feeling sulky and irritable
- Drooling excessively
- Redness on their cheeks and chin
- Red, swollen gums
- Not wanting to eat
- Not sleeping properly
- Rubbing their face, biting, chewing and sucking behaviour
Some children will get some of these symptoms and some will get others. If there is a combination of these symptoms it is most likely due to teething.
Is it worse at night?
There is nothing to suggest that it is worse at night, but as there are less distractions for kids they can often wake up or react more with the same pain.
What are some ways to help my child through it?
There are many different remedies and products available to relieve the aching and soothe their gums.
- You can massage their gums. Wash your hands and gently run the sore gums, providing temporary relief
- There are many different types of soft and rubber toys that are safe to be chewed on that will soothe gums.
- Cool a damp cloth and then encourage the child to bite on it. This will help relieve their symptoms and reduce the swelling.
- Discuss with you GP or dentist any medications that are safe for the children.
Should I still breastfeed?
Every baby is different, some will want to breastfeed through teething and some will not. It is understandable to be worried about babies biting, but it is normally quite easy to discourage biting when being very stern with your baby if they bite you.
Your Child’s First Visit
At Fullarton Park Dental we recommend you take your child for their first dental visit soon after their second birthday.
A check-up by this age will allow your child to become familiar with our clinic and allow us to check for tooth decay and other dental conditions.
Our team of dentists and hygienists will also provide advice on prevention such as toothbrushing techniques and good eating habits.
Learn more on our Children’s Dentistry service page.
