Apr 07 2009
So what’s going on with the teeth?
There are a lot of questions out there that Mom’s (and Dad’s) have trouble finding the answers to. Although I don’t know ALL the answers, I can help you with a few regarding your baby. One main concern is Teething. When will my baby’s first tooth poke through? How long will my baby be teething? How can I tell if my baby is teething if I don’t see any teeth coming in? As well as the controversial subject of teething related fevers. Just because your baby is drooling, does not necessarily mean she is teething.
So when will the first one peek it’s head out?
Fortunately for you (and your baby), there is no deadline with teething. It may happen as early as 3 months, or 14 months. Don’t worry if you don’t see teeth by the time you’re ready to start giving your little Prince/Princess solid foods. You can still blend up some fruits and veggies into a delicious mush until your baby is ready for the next stage.
How long will the pain last?
Teething in general lasts an average of 2 years, occasionally 3, but the pain stops much sooner. Possibly it’s the fact of babies forming a tolerance to the feeling of teething, and it becomes “just one of those things”. If your baby has trouble with teething like most do, I suggest Baby Orajel in a tube. You can find it at Walmart, Target, Kmart and Walgreens. Prices vary by store, so be sure to shop around.
How can I tell if my baby is teething if I don’t see any teeth coming in?
The need to gnaw, Fussiness, Ear pulling, and A change in eating habits are some key signs to look out for if you think your baby may be sprouting some new chompers. If something seems out of the ordinary to you, and raises high concern, don’t hesitate to call your pediatrician.
And the award winning question: Can teething cause fevers?
If your baby has a fever, don’t always assume it’s from teething. Something else could be going on that you’re not aware of and looking over one MAJOR red flag may put your baby’s health in jeopardy. If the fever is under 101 degrees Fahrenheit, don’t jump to the phone just yet. Try giving your little one infants Tylenol (Acetaminophen) to help lower the fever as well as reduce body aches and discomfort. If your baby is under 25 pounds, only give her 0.8 mL. Should the fever reach 101 or higher, a call to the pediatrician is in order.
Looking to make your baby feel better while she’s teething?
Try using a frozen washcloth or teething toy, although, some babies reject it as it may be too cold on their sensitive gums. Distraction and bonding time work amazing wonders when it comes to baby aches and pains. Playing silly games and exploring new toys may ease your baby’s pain, even if just a little.
No matter what your parents or grandparents tell you about your baby’s teething issues, Brandy or alcohol are never good ideas. Even a tiny amount could be considered poison to your baby’s body.
Now that the teeth are in, it’s time to wonder when they’re going to come back out. If your baby started teething early, chances are she’s going to start losing them early. It is more than possible for her to lose a tooth or two before she even makes it to kindergarten.
It is important to remember that every child grows and reaches milestones at their own pace. As long as you have no developmental concerns, let her grow and do what she is going to do and support her along the way. You’re her superhero.
