Have you ever experienced a toothache? If you have, you know how unbearable dental pain can be. Now, imagine that discomfort in a baby who cannot articulate their distress and lacks access to effective pain relief. This combination can lead to a very unhappy infant. Here’s what you should know about the signs and symptoms of teething.
Teething begins at different times for each child. While some infants may get their first tooth as early as 3 months, others may not see that milestone until around 6 months. Interestingly, a few babies are even born with one or two teeth, while others may still be toothless at their first birthday. It’s truly unpredictable.
Typically, teeth emerge in pairs. The first ones to appear are usually the two bottom front teeth, followed by the four upper ones. Your baby will likely receive their molars near their first birthday, and a second set around the age of two. By approximately 2.5 years old, most children will have a complete set of primary teeth.
For many babies, the initial teeth can be the most troublesome. After the first few, teething symptoms often become less severe—until those challenging molars start to come through. Each baby experiences teething differently; some may only show signs of discomfort for a few days, while others could exhibit symptoms for months without any teeth breaking through. Common signs include:
- Excessive drooling
- Flushed cheeks
- Irregular appetite
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased irritability
- Sore, swollen gums
- Rash on the chin from drooling
- Possible mild fever
- Loose stools
Fortunately, there are several methods to ease your baby’s teething pain, so don’t hesitate to explore them. If you’re navigating the challenges of a teething baby, remember that patience is key—they’re experiencing genuine discomfort, and so are you as you witness their struggle. Take a moment to breathe, perhaps enjoy a glass of wine, and remind yourself that this phase will eventually pass.
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In summary, teething can be a challenging phase for both babies and parents. Understanding the signs and symptoms can help you better support your child through this process.