Handling Teething Babies
Babies first teeth usually appears between the first 3 to 7 months of their lives. It may differ from baby to baby. Some babies have their first tooth appear as early as three months. The process of teething continues up to the age of 3 years. For some babies, this process of teething may cause a lot of discomfort, while some babies do not even let you know that they are teething. It is pain free for them.
Most children face some or the other discomfort while teething. Some of the teething signs are sore and swollen gums, constant biting, excessive drooling and loss of appetite. However, symptoms and level of discomfort may vary from child to child. Some babies become irritable and restless due to the discomfort; others have disrupted sleep pattern. If you are not sure that the symptoms your baby is showing is due to the emergence of tooth, seek advice from a dentist. Here are some suggestions to minimize the discomfort your baby faces while teething.
Baby develops a chewing instinct due to the emerging tooth that creates an itchy feeling on the gum. The baby starts biting things to create a counter pressure to get rid of this sensation. They often chew or bite anything they can catch. To relieve your baby from excessive pain you can use gel that is available in the market to reduce gum pain. Baby pain reliever can also help.
There are teething toys available which can be kept in the refrigerator to give the baby cool treat for gums. These cold toys can bring a numbing effect on gums. Give your baby a piece of carrot. Baby will not be able to tear it off but it will sooth their gums. Do not give any teething item that is too cold. Frozen item can result in frost bite. Anything you give to your baby for chewing should be large enough to avoid choking hazard. Wash your hands properly and run your freshly washed finger over the sore gums. Pressure of your fingers will bring some relief. Some homeopathic medicines like ‘teething tabs’ help to provide comfort to the teething baby.
Cuddling and hugging with your baby is necessary during the teething period. It gives baby reassurance and comfort and also distracts baby’s attention from pain. Provide cold water and cold food to the baby for numbing pain. Providing enough water to drink will also replenish the loss of fluid which occurs due to excessive drooling. Handle your teething baby carefully.
