Teething(Cutting Teeth)
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionTeething begins before a child's first tooth breaks through the gums. It is a natural process, but causes sore gums. Teething can make your child uncomfortable and cranky. Teething lasts from 6 months to 3 years.
Causes TOPThe first teeth start to come in when your baby is 6-12 months old. The first teeth are most often the 2 bottom front teeth. Other teeth will quickly follow. The pressure on the gums can make them swollen and tender. Risk Factors TOPTeething is a natural process. No factors increase the chance of teething. Symptoms TOPMany babies do not experience any problems or pain. When symptoms do occur, they generally last for several days before and a few days after the tooth comes through the gums. Symptoms include:
If the baby is feverish and acts sick or very upset, seek medical care. Something else may be causing the symptoms. Diagnosis TOPTeething will be diagnosed by the baby's age, symptoms, and appearance of the gums. A teething baby's gums appear swollen and are tender. Sometimes small, white spots appear on the gums just before a tooth comes through. There may be some bruising or bleeding. Treatment TOPMost children will only need basic comfort measures. Your doctor may recommend pain-numbing gels and medications, but they are rarely needed. Bring your child to a dentist when the first tooth comes in. Make sure to visit the dentist by one year of age. The dentist will perform an exam. You will be shown how to care for your child's teeth. Cleaning
Comfort MeasuresTeething babies usually like to chew on a wet washcloth or teething ring. Guidelines for teething rings include:
Note : Avoid using amber teething necklaces. Current evidence does not show that they help relieve pain. They are also a strangulation and choking hazard. Other general tips include:
Prevention TOPTeething is a normal part of child development. Prevention methods are not needed. RESOURCES:Healthy Smiles, Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry http://www.aapd.org/foundation Mouth Healthy—American Dental Association http://www.mouthhealthy.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Dental Association http://www.cda-adc.ca The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association http://www.cdha.ca References:Amber teething necklaces: a caution for parents. Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics website. Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/teething-tooth-care/Pages/Amber-Teething-Necklaces.aspx. Updated October 19, 2016. Accessed March 20, 2018. American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs. Fluoride toothpaste use for young children. J Am Dent Assoc. 2014;145(2):190-191. Teething: 4 to 7 months. Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated October 6, 2016. Accessed March 20, 2018. Teething tots. Kid's Health—Nemours Foundation website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated January 2018. Accessed March 20, 2018. Last reviewed March 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Kari Kassir, MD Last Updated: 5/5/2014 |
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