If you’ve ever experienced a toothache, you know just how uncomfortable dental pain can be. Now, imagine feeling that discomfort as a baby, without the ability to express it or access any strong pain relief. This can lead to a very unhappy little one! Here’s everything you should know about the signs and symptoms of teething.
When Will the Teeth Come In?
There’s no definitive timeline for when your baby will get their first tooth. It could happen as early as 3 months, or it might not appear until around the 6-month mark. Interestingly, some infants are even born with one or two teeth, while others may be toothless by their first birthday! The timing is different for everyone.
Teeth usually emerge in pairs. Typically, the first ones to show up are the two bottom front teeth, followed by the four upper teeth. You might find that the first set of molars won’t make an appearance until closer to their first birthday, with another set coming around the second birthday. By about 2.5 years, most children will have all their primary teeth.
Understanding Teething Symptoms
For many babies, the initial teeth can be the most challenging phase. After those first few, teething discomfort often eases up—at least until the molars start to come through. It’s important to remember that every baby reacts differently. Some might only show signs of discomfort for a few days, while others might exhibit symptoms for weeks with no tooth in sight.
Here are some common signs to look out for (though not every child will experience all of these symptoms):
- Excessive drooling
- Flushed cheeks
- Changes in appetite
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased irritability or fussiness
- Swollen or tender gums
- Rashes on the chin due to drool
- Low-grade fever
- Loose stools
How to Help Your Teething Baby
The good news is that there are ways to soothe your teething baby. Patience is key—understand that they are genuinely experiencing discomfort, and this can be tough for you to witness. Take a moment to breathe, pour yourself a glass of wine, and remind yourself that this phase will eventually pass.
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In summary, teething can be a challenging experience for both babies and their parents. By recognizing the signs and symptoms, you can better prepare to comfort your little one during this phase.