Teething babies can be daunting. And knowing what to do for them can be stressful. Knowing what to expect for your teething baby is the first step in giving your baby the best care.
The Order of Tooth Arrival
Baby teeth begin to arrive somewhere around six months of age. The process can start as early as four months and be delayed up to twelve. The front teeth are the earliest to make an appearance. Normally the bottom incisors come in first, followed by the upper incisors. Then the canine teeth arrive. Over the next couple of years, upper and lower molars will erupt, completing a child’s set of baby teeth. For a helpful diagram, check out this one from the American Dental Association.
Teething is a Pain!
There are several signs that an infant’s first teeth are on their way. This process is uncomfortable, so your baby may be extra fussy, crying for what seems like no reason. He or she may also have some trouble sleeping, waking up in the middle of the night with discomfort. Other common signs of tooth eruption are extra drool and the simple desire to chew on things: a toy, a shirt, his or her own hand.
How Can a Parent Give Some Relief?
The arrival of baby teeth is an uncomfortable process that takes time. Thankfully, there are some tools available to give children at least some measure of relief. Your baby is naturally going to want to chew, so make sure that there is something safe available. A wet washcloth that has been chilled in a refrigerator is one common solution. Rubber teethers are also helpful, giving your infant a satisfying chew. Solid rubber teethers are recommended as the safest choice. Finally, especially to help your baby have a more comfortable sleep, infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be administered. Check with your child’s pediatrician about the proper dosage. You can find more recommendations on caring for your baby from the American Dental Association here.
Is It Time for a Checkup?
At Lowry Dental, we want to be part of your child’s healthy smile for life. Although your child’s first teeth will eventually be replaced, it is important to start healthy practices from an early age. This includes a trip to the dentist. Please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions about your child’s new teeth or would like to schedule an appointment.