My baby is teething, what can I do?
Teething is a stage that often gives a hard time to many babies and their parents!
For most infants, the first baby teeth appear around 5 to 6 months. However, you should not be surprised if your child keeps its teeth hidden even after its first birthday.
A few key symptoms often point out that a tooth is on its way. The classic signs are an increased secretion of saliva (he drools a lot more) and a grumpier mood due to the discomfort caused by teething. Babies can also pull their ears, have a little fever, have redder cheeks, diarrhea, skin irritation and diaper rash.
More specifically, we can notice the imminent arrival of a tooth if the gums present a local swelling that is painful to the touch as well as white spots or a small darker bump. It goes without saying that the discomfort felt could affect his sleep and his appetite, but I assure you, it is temporary. Do not worry too much!
We will then understand why baby will seek relieve in different ways. Most often, he will bite all kinds of things to soothe his pain and look for comfort in his parents' arms.
What can I do to help him during teething?
- You can offer him a clean small washcloth wet with cool water to bite into. The cold feeling may help decrease the sensitivity of his gums.
- A rubber or silicone teething ring, collar or glove are also practical and interesting objects to offer during the dental breakthrough.
- If the baby is older, you can offer him a frozen smoothie pop. The sensation of cold may help him reduce the sensitivity of his gums, and it can be a great snack as well.
- Some natural products like Catnip and Fennel as well as the homeopathic product Camilia can also help reduce the impact of dental breakthrough.
- If needed, some acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be given. Please make sure to respect the dosage indicated according to the baby's weight or age.
We hope that these few practical tips will help this necessary step and reduce the impact on the daily life of the whole family.
See you soon,
Marie Fortier, the baby expert