Teething
Teething is one of those things we all go through, but it can be hard to figure out what symptoms to watch for, if it’s teething vs. something else or when to call your pediatrician.
Timing + Order
The whole process of teething can take a long time - for most babies, it starts around 6 months old. Some babies get one tooth at a time, slowly, over months, and others have a lot pop up all at once. Some teeth can take a really long time to come in (on and off for weeks). And though it’s most common to have the two central lower teeth (central incisors) emerge first, every baby is different - teeth can come in in a lot of different orders.
A lot of you asked if your 3 month old, who is suddenly drooling a lot, could be teething. While it’s always possible, some normal developmental things happen around this age that look just like teething and might be more likely - 1) babies’ salivary glands develop and cause a lot of extra drooling and 2) babies start bringing their hands to their mouth, which can look just like teething.
What Does It Look Like?
Here are some symptoms of teething that you might notice:
+ irritability or fussiness
+ mild temperature (less than 100.4F)
+ decreased feeding
+ drooling + extra saliva
+ congestion (from extra saliva)
+ loose stools
+ biting/chewing
What Can I Do For Symptoms?
Pain from a new tooth should only truly last 24-72 hours before it breaks through - once the tooth pops through the gum, your child should feel relief. Here are some tips that can help with pain:
Gum Massage. Use a clean finger and apply gentle pressure.
Washcloth Trick. Knot a washcloth on one or both ends. Dip knot in breastmilk, formula, or water. Put in a Ziploc bag in the fridge for 15-30 minutes max. Give to baby (or attach to a pacifier clip). This is soothing like a teether but is more moldable + can into hard to reach areas.
Teethers. Some of my favorite teething toys are this mushroom one and this classic silicone one.
More Frequent Nursing. If you are nursing, the rhythmic motion can comfort some babies.
Children’s Ibuprofen As Needed. For children 6 months and older, children’s ibuprofen can sometimes be more helpful with teething because of its role as an anti-inflammatory.
For Molars. I love these silicone straws for molars - they get all the way in the back of the mouth and provide lots of comfort. I would chill them in the fridge for 15 minutes before giving them to the kids.
When To Seek Medical Help
These symptoms are not typically associated with teething. Check with your pediatrician if your child is/has:
+ inconsolable
+ temperature greater than 100.4F
+ refusing feeds
+ diarrhea
+ cough, wheezing, or trouble breathing
+ any concerns or questions
I know teething is hard - I promise, it will get easier. You’re doing so great.
