The Starting Line: When Does Teething Begin?
Ever noticed your usually cheery baby turning into a drool machine with a penchant for gnawing everything in sight? Ah, the unmistakable signs of teething. This rite of passage, while a milestone, can test the mettle of both babes and parents alike. Teething often starts around 6 months old, but don’t be surprised if those pearly whites peek through earlier or later.
Spot the Signs: Recognizing Teething Symptoms
Teething symptoms include more than just an increase in drool and a desire to chew. Watch for:
- irritability
- red and swollen gums
- a mild fever
- a slight drop in appetite
Remember, each baby’s teething timeline is as unique as they are, so symptoms can vary widely.
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Soothing the Sore: Top Teething Remedies
Overwhelmed by the plethora of teething remedies out there? A chilled (not frozen!) teething ring can work wonders. So can massaging your baby’s gums with clean fingers or offering a cool, wet washcloth to gnaw on. For the adventurous, there are teething necklaces and biscuits, though these come with their own set of precautions.
Explore these soothing remedies to help your little one during the teething phase.
Teething Titans: The Order of Appearance
Teeth tend to arrive in pairs, and the lower front teeth, or incisors, usually make their debut first, followed by the upper front teeth. Molars can be particularly troublesome due to their larger size, but don’t worry, they usually wrap up the teething timeline by the time your little one hits the 2-to-3-year mark.
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, but understanding the order of tooth appearance can help prepare you for what to expect.
Nighttime Nemesis: Handling Teething Sleep Troubles
Teething can make nights long and sleep scarce. Try to stick to soothing bedtime routines and consider a crib rail teether if your baby tends to gnaw at night. Teething pain tends to ebb after the tooth breaks through the gum, so hang in there — sleep will return!
Beyond Teeth: What Comes Next?
Once the teething phase tails off, your baby will have a set of 20 baby teeth. This is the perfect time to initiate good oral hygiene practices. Brush those tiny teeth with a soft-bristled brush and water, and introduce your child to the idea of dental visits. The end of teething doesn’t mean the end of attention to those teeth!