Our guide to getting your through the teething ills.
Teething
Definition
Sequential appearance of baby teeth and adult teeth.
New teeth erupt continually from age six months to three years. Between ages six and 12, children lose baby teeth, which are replaced with adult teeth. On average, the first set of teeth is complete soon after the second birthday.
Body parts involved
Mouth, teeth
Sex or age most affected
Both sexes of children from ages six months to three years and six to 12 years.
Signs and symptoms
Excess saliva production, drooling and chewing on anything the baby can hold.
Pain. (This symptom cannot be proven, but probably does occur).
Gums may become red or swollen.
Irritability
Fretfulness; clinging
Difficulty in sleeping
Crying more than usual
Teething should not be considered the only reason of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, prolonged loss of appetite,
earache, convulsions, cough or nappy rash.
These are possible symptoms of an illness. Consult your doctor.
Causes
Normal physiological development
Risk increases with
Teething problems are not related to any known risk factor.
How to prevent
Teething problems cannot be prevented, but symptoms can be relieved.
What to expect
Diagnostic measures
Your own observation of teething symptoms.
Appropriate health care
Home care for teething discomfort.
Doctor or dentist's treatment (complications only).
Possible complications
If not cared for properly, baby teeth may decay and need filling. Teething may be misdiagnosed as a fever-causing illness.
Probable outcome
Teething discomfort can be partially relieved.
How to treat
General measures
The sequence of normal tooth eruption in children is: first teeth (lower front teeth) at about six months, sooner in girls than boys.
First adult teeth at about age six. Bicuspids (side teeth) between ages ten and 12. Permanent molars at about age 12.
Home-care:
Rub the child's gums with your finger; this is very comforting.
Freeze a coarse washcloth and allow the child to chew it.
Offer the child a teething biscuit or teething ring (you may chill it).
Keep the child amused or occupied.
Clean new teeth and gums with a cotton swab and water or use your finger with a soft washcloth wrapped around it.
Wait until the child is two or three years old before brushing teeth regularly.
By this age, children want to imitate parents by brushing teeth.
Begin regular dental visits at age two or three.
At age five, explain to the child that losing baby teeth is normal. This prevents the child from becoming concerned when tooth loss begins.
Medication
Medicine usually is not necessary for teething discomfort.
Acetaminophen in proper dosages, or a cream or ointment rubbed on the gums to ease discomfort may be recommended by your doctor.
Activity
No restrictions
Diet
No special diet. Chewing on teething biscuits may help some infants.
Call your doctor if
The child's temperature rises above normal. Signs of infection, such as pain, pus, excessive swelling or very red gums, occur at the site of the erupting tooth. - Bonajel