7 Signs of Teething Troubles in Your Little One

Teething in babies can start between 6-12 months, though in some cases it may appear a little later. In case teething starts later, remember that every child is different. So, the age range may be 6-12 months, but the first tooth may appear around 14 months.

Though if you feel concerned about your baby’s teething issues, speak to your healthcare specialist.

Duration of the teething process

The total time period may last around two years i.e., till your child turns 2 or 3 and he/she will have a full set of 20 teeth.

When they turn around 6 or 7 years, the baby teeth fall out making space for the permanent teeth which take years for all 32 teeth to appear.

Signs of Teething

There are times when a tooth will appear without any symptoms while in some cases the teething symptoms can start 3-4 days prior.

As the teeth appear, the symptoms can include the following:

1. Low-grade fever

Teething can cause a slight increase in the body temperature but is unlikely to reach over 101 degrees. In case your baby has temperature of 101 degrees or 100.4 degrees (baby is under 3 months), consult your doctor to determine the fever’s cause.

2. Chewing

When your baby experiences teething, he/she may gnaw on things and even their own fingers to ease the discomfort felt. In such cases, you can massage their gums with your clean finger or use a cold pacifier for the baby to use.

3. Swollen gums

There may be some area on the gums that are swollen and can be felt if you rub a finger on their gums and a slight bump is felt from where a tooth is about to sprout.

4. Refusing to eat

Your baby wouldn’t want to eat anything during these times. But don’t worry offer items which are easy to swallow to ensure he/she receives adequate nutrition.

5. More Drooling

It is a common sight to see babies drool a lot. The cause of drooling is the extra saliva which is being created to help lubricate the sore gums and reduce the irritation.

6. Crankiness

Babies get cranky during this period as a result of the pain and discomfort. So, try to help reduce their pain by regularly massaging the gums with clean hands and giving them a chilled teething toy to chew on.

7. Frequent waking up (especially during the night)

Unfortunately, babies can show teething signs by frequently waking up at night. It is due to the discomfort of a growing tooth. Try to help them settle properly by showing that you care for them and will use every trick in the bag to help soothe their teething woes.

References:

1. Memarpour M, Soltanimehr E, Eskandarian T. (2015). Signs and symptoms associated with primary tooth eruption: a clinical trial of nonpharmacological remedies. NCBI

2. Karjiker, YI, & Morkel, JA. (2020). Teething symptoms and management during infancy - A narrative review. South African Dental Journal