Teething is a natural process that all babies go through as their first set of teeth begin to emerge. It is a crucial milestone in their development. Teething troubles can be a source of discomfort for both the baby and the parents. But when is the perfect time to start the teething journey?
Begin The Teething Journey With Your Baby
Most babies start teething between the ages of 4 and 7 months, but it can vary widely from baby to baby. Some babies may start teething as early as 3 months, while others may not start until they are 12 months old.
As a general rule, the bottom front teeth usually come first, followed by the top front teeth and then the molars. By the time a baby is 2-3 years old, they should have a full set of 20 primary teeth.
Parents should be aware of the signs of teething, which may include increased drooling, biting, gum sensitivity, and fussiness and at time cause teething molars fever. In some cases, babies may even develop a low-grade fever or a rash around their mouths.
When It Comes To Teething, Dentists Are Your Best Source Of Advice!
Dentists provide insight into the proper care and safety measures needed for little ones as they go through this essential phase. From home remedies to professional guidance tailored just for you, rely on your dentist’s expertise when caring for your child’s teeth. They generally recommend the following preventive practices when it comes to teething:
Offer a safe teething toy:
Providing a clean, chilled teething toy for the baby to chew on can help soothe sore gums and reduce discomfort.
Avoid teething biscuits:
Teething biscuits can break into small pieces and pose a choking hazard for babies. Dentists recommend avoiding these and opting for safer teething options instead.
Clean the baby’s mouth regularly:
Increased drooling during teething can lead to a buildup of bacteria in the baby’s mouth. Dentists recommend cleaning the baby’s mouth regularly with a damp cloth to prevent infections.
Avoid teething gels:
Teething gels contain a local anesthetic that can numb the baby’s mouth and make it difficult for them to eat or drink. Dentists recommend avoiding these gels and seeking alternative teething remedies.
Massage the gums:
Gently massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger can help to soothe sore gums and reduce discomfort.
Offer a chilled washcloth:
Providing a chilled washcloth for the baby to bite on can also help to relieve teething discomfort.
It is important to note that teething can be a normal process, and not all babies will experience significant discomfort. If the baby is experiencing a high fever, excessive fussiness, or other symptoms that seem concerning, it is best to seek advice from a pediatrician or dentist.
Final Words:
There is no specific time that is perfect for teething to start, as it varies from baby to baby. However, it is important for parents to be aware of the signs of teething and to have strategies in place to help their little one through this stage. With a little patience and care, teething can be a smooth process for both baby and parents.
If you’re concerned about your baby’s teething process, visit our office at 1124 N. Velasco St., Suite C, Angleton, TX 77515 and schedule an appointment with one of our expert pediatric dentists. They will be able to assess your baby’s mouth and let you know if there are any concerns. Our team at Angleton Family Dental is always here to assist!
