Is My Baby Teething? Here are Some Signs from a Pediatric Dentist Office

Contact a pediatric dentist office to gain helpful insights about a baby teething. There is no question that parenting comes with an abundance of joy. It also means dealing with cranky infants as their teeth begin to erupt. However, a fussy baby can indicate any number of things. With the signs provided, you will have a much better idea whether teething is the culprit.

Tiny teeth need help from a pediatric dentist

As adults, it is hard to imagine how something so small could cause such a ruckus. However, for a small infant, teething proves painful. A fussy baby is a good indicator that the problem is nothing more than this. Even so, it is better to be on the safe side by speaking with the child’s pediatric dentist when noticing specific signs. Some babies start teething at just two months. Others do not get their first tooth until six months.

Telltale signs of teething

• Biting — Whether on a teething ring, the remote control or a shoe, when starting to teethe, babies tend to chew on anything to ease the discomfort
• Poor appetite — A pediatric dentist will also advise parents to expect a loss of appetite
• Excessive drooling — Drooling is one of the first signs of teething, which can lead to diarrhea
• Increased sucking — It is common to see teething babies increase their sucking as they try to alleviate pressure on the gums
• Mouth rash — Constant drooling can cause babies to develop a slight red rash around the mouth and chin
• Trouble sleeping — Due to the pain, teething usually have trouble falling asleep and going all night without waking up
• Pulling on the ears — A baby’s pediatric dentist would advise the parents to watch for ear pulling, which helps reduce the pain of sore gums
• Fever — Many babies develop a slightly elevated temperature: Anything more than 110.4 degrees Fahrenheit calls for a trip to the pediatrician
• Fussiness — Irritability and teething go hand in hand due to pain, discomfort and, in some instances, a fever
• Swollen gums — A baby’s gums will become swollen and turn red as the teeth try to push through the surface

What can parents do for teething babies?

Teething hurts. For that reason, it causes babies to cry. Loving moms and dads want to do everything they can to comfort the child. The good news — there are some viable things that help. Of course, along with at-home remedies, if the pain persists, parents should have babies seen by a pediatric dentist. That way, the dental professional can rule out any other issues.

Often, a pediatric dentist will recommend acetaminophen formulated specifically for infants or a numbing gel. Both of these works great. Unfortunately, teething is a part of a baby’s natural development. That means that sometimes, the only thing a parent can do is offer love and something for the pain.

Parents can also buy teething rings that freeze before use. Another option is a teether with a mesh covered compartment. What makes this helpful is that in addition to an ice cube, a parent can add frozen fruits or vegetables. With this, the baby gnaws on a cold piece of carrot or strawberry but without any risk of choking.

Take charge

Are you feeling frustrated with a crying baby? There is a good chance that teething is the problem. For confirmation, schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist. From there, you can follow the instruction provided to give your baby relief.

Request an appointment here: https://nettsmiles.com or call Nett Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics at (623) 516-2800 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.

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