Your baby is teething when his or her first set of teeth, called primary teeth, break through the gums.
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| PRIMARY TEETH |
An infant's first teeth are called baby teeth or primary teeth. They usually start to come in (erupt) between 6 months and 12 months of age. A total of 20 primary teeth erupt by about 3 years of age. Children begin to lose their primary teeth between the ages of 6 and 11 years. They are replaced by secondary, or permanent teeth.
When Does Teething Typically Start?
- Usually beings around 6 months of age.
- It's normal for teething to start at any time between 3- 12 months.
- By the time your child is about 3, he/she will have all 20 primary teeth.
- The lower front teeth usually come in first.
- Upper front teeth usually come in 1 to 2 months after the lower front teeth.
Symptoms of Teething
- Soreness and swelling in the gums will make for a fussy baby
- These symptoms will begin about 3-5 days before the tooth shows, and they disappear as soon as the tooth breaks the skin.
- Babies may bite on their fingers or toys to help relieve the pressure
- May refuse to eat and drink because their mouths hurt
- Excessive drooling, which can cause a rash on the chin, face, or chest.
Keeping Your Little One Comfortable While Teething
- Give your baby a mild pain reliever that is labeled for his or her specific age. For example, acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil) may help relieve your baby's discomfort. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20, because it has been linked to Reye syndrome, a rare but serious disease.
- Use a clean finger (or cold teething ring) to gently rub your baby's gum for about 2 minutes at a time. Many babies find this soothing, although they may protest at first.
- Provide safe objects for your baby to chew on, such as teething rings.
Post Credits: WebMD
