Teething
Somewhere around your baby's six-month birthday, she may begin cutting teeth. The primary teeth, which form before the baby is born, usually begin to push through the gums around six months of age. But, like many milestones there is a wide range of normal when it comes to teething. So don't be surprised if your baby's first tooth shows up when she is two months old, or if she is still toothless at twelve months old.
Teething is an exciting milestone that you will certainly want to mark down on your baby's calendar. Unfortunately, your baby may be less than happy about this new development. The process of teething, whereby the teeth push through and erupt through the gums is marked by drooling, as well as swelling and pain in the gums. Your baby may be abnormally cranky and have trouble sleeping and eating for a few days. Some babies may also spit up or develop mild diarrhea due to the increased amount of saliva they are swallowing. Other babies develop a rash on their cheeks, chin, neck, and chest from the excessive drooling. Teething may also cause a mild fever, congestion, and ear pulling — symptoms that look similar to an ear infection.
In general, teeth begin to appear on the following schedule: the central incisors (the teeth right in the middle of the jaw on the top and bottom), come in at six to twelve months; lateral incisors at nine to thirteen months; canine (cuspeds) at sixteen to twenty-two months; the first molars at thirteen to nineteen months; and the second molars at twenty-five to thirty-three months. Most children have all of their primary teeth by age three.
If your baby develops severe symptoms, or you are concerned about his condition for any reason, talk to your health care provider to ensure that his symptoms are normal. Teething is a normal process that all babies must endure, and the best thing that you can do to help him get through it is to find ways to minimize the pain and irritation.
Some parents swear by over-the-counter oral analgesics to ease the pain of teething. However the relief from these products only lasts for a few minutes and many carry a small risk of allergic reaction and decreased gag reflex.
Instead, try the following natural teething remedies to ease the pain and swelling associated with teething.
Gum Massage
Irritated, swollen gums are often soothed by gentle massage. Using one clean finger, slowly massage your baby's gums with gentle but firm pressure until the pain subsides.
Nontoxic Teethers
Many companies make teething products for babies to chew on when their teeth are coming in. These can be great for helping to alleviate the pain of teething, but you have to watch out for teethers made from toxic plastics. Instead, opt for teethers made from natural fibers, such as organic cotton, that can be washed and used over and over again. Cool the teether in the refrigerator for extra numbing relief.
A cold banana or bagel may also make a good teether in pinch, but keep a close eye on your baby to make sure that she doesn't bite off a piece that is too large for her to swallow. Cold spoons and organic cotton washcloths are also great teethers.
