There are a few things you should do to help your baby develop a healthy smile. You brush your child’s gums before he or she even has a tooth. You bring your little one to a dentist when they are about a year old. But, what do you do when your baby starts teething? Here are a few ideas that can help you put your baby at ease.
Give them Something to Bite: Whether you offer your baby a teething ring or something more flavorful, biting down on an object can help break down your babies gum and make it easier for their teeth to emerge. However, if you give your baby food, we recommend that you watch them closely. If a piece of the food breaks off, it could present a choking hazard.
Keep Their Gums Cool: Try giving your baby something cool to chew on. This can help numb your baby’s gums and make your little one more comfortable. If your baby isn’t eating solid food, you may try a teething ring, washcloth, or spoon. If your baby is eating solid foods, you may want to try something like a chilled, peeled carrot or cucumber.
Try Over-the-Counter Medication: There are over-the-counter remedies that can help if your baby is cranky. Some medications, such as gels, should be used sparingly and only on the gum where the tooth is erupting. Otherwise, you could numb your child’s entire mouth. If over-the-counter medications don’t seem effective, your doctor could prescribe a medication.
Contrary to popular belief, teething does not cause effects outside of your child’s gums. In other words, teething will not result in diarrhea or a fever. If none of the tips above help, or if you notice symptoms not associated with teething, we recommend that you contact us today.
