Taming Teething: Soothing Strategies for Infants
Dr. Henrietta Sugar Shares Tips on Comforting Your Teething Tot
Warmest welcomes to all the new parents navigating the teething terrain in Scottsdale! It's Dr. Henrietta Sugar, your pediatric tooth troubleshooter, here to ease your journey through this milestone. Teething — the emergence of the first baby teeth through the gums — can be a trying time for both babies and parents. But fret not! With a few tried-and-true techniques, we can help soothe your little one's discomfort.
The Teething Timeline
Most babies start teething around 6 months of age, but it's not uncommon for the first tooth to appear a bit earlier or later. Keep an eye out for signs of teething, such as drooling, fussiness, and chewing on objects.
Milestone Markers
Tooth Arrival Alert: Recognize the signs of teething so you can offer comfort right from the first symptoms.
Safe Soothers
Offer clean teething rings or cold washcloths for your baby to chew on. The pressure and coolness can alleviate discomfort.
Chilly Chewables
Cool Comfort: Refrigerated (not frozen) teething toys or cloths can provide numbing relief without being too harsh on tender gums.
Gum Massage Magic
Gently rub your baby's gums with a clean finger. The pressure can provide temporary relief from the pain and itchiness of teething.
Gentle Gestures
Soothing Strokes: Wash your hands thoroughly and give your baby's gums a gentle rubdown.
Pain Management
If your baby seems particularly uncomfortable, consult with your pediatrician about using children's pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies older than 6 months).
Medication Considerations
Pediatrician-Approved: Always check with your child's doctor before giving any medications for teething pain.
Teething Toys and Accessories
There's a variety of teething toys available, including some that can be refrigerated. Choose ones made of safe materials, large enough to prevent choking, and easy to clean.
Selective Shopping
Toy Tactics: Look for non-toxic, hygienic, and durable teething toys that your baby enjoys.
Avoiding Hazardous Remedies
Steer clear of remedies that could harm your baby, such as teething tablets, necklaces, or bracelets, which pose a risk of choking, suffocation, or ingestion of harmful substances.
Safety Strategy
Harmful Avoidance: Use only safe, non-ingestible items specifically designed for teething relief.
Keeping Drool at Bay
Teething often leads to excessive drooling, which can irritate the skin. Keep a soft cloth handy to gently dab away drool and consider applying a water-based cream or lotion to protect your baby's skin.
Dribble Defense
Skin Shield: Protect your baby's skin from drool-related irritation with regular cleaning and moisturizing.
Monitor for Teething Fever
A slight increase in temperature may occur with teething but should not cause a high fever. If your baby has a fever, it's important to look for other causes.
Temperature Tracking
Fever Fact-Checking: Consult your pediatrician if your baby has a fever to rule out other illnesses.
Patience and Presence
Sometimes, the best remedy is your loving attention. Hold and cuddle your baby more often to help them feel secure and loved.
Calming Closeness
Soothing Snuggles: Provide extra cuddles and comfort to help your baby through the rough patches of teething.
For additional guidance on teething or to address any concerns about your baby's oral health, don't hesitate to connect with Dr. Henrietta Sugar:
Teething is a natural, albeit challenging, phase that all babies go through. With the right approach and plenty of tender loving care, you can help your infant manage teething troubles and emerge with a smile full of tiny, adorable teeth. Here's to happy babies and relieved parents
