Teething seems to begin with birth and go on until kindergarten. It’s a trying time for both parents and tots alike. But rest assured, teething does end, and peace will be restored; where teething is concerned anyway. Then it’s on to any number of wonderful phases of growth for you and your child.

Causes

Children’s teeth actually begin to develop in the womb. When the teeth begin to break through the gums, teething has begun. Teething can begin as early as 3 months and last until the child is three. Most commonly, 4-7 months is the time when the primary teeth break through. But there are always those early developers who have a tooth poking through at birth, and late bloomers who sport a gummy smile until around the time of their first birthday.

Teeth usually break through in a specific order, but not always. Typically, the bottom front teeth make their appearance first, followed by the top two front teeth. The bicuspids and the canines are next, followed by the molars. There are general stages when the molars come in, giving them the names of two-year, four-year, and six-year molars.

Signs and Symptoms

Teething is a painful time for most children, although some don’t experience any side effects at all. The gums become painful and swollen from the tooth pressing against them, working its way out of the gums. The child may react with crying, irritability, loss of appetite (because it’s too painful to eat), and excessive drool which can cause a rash on the face and neck of the child. Other symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, diaper rash, and vomiting are debatable as to whether or not teething is the actual cause of these other symptoms. One pediatrician, William Sears, author of The Baby Book, maintains that teething can cause diarrhea and mild diaper rash due to the excess saliva that the baby is swallowing. Fever (101 or lower) can be caused due to the inflammation of the baby’s gums, any higher and a more serious condition must be ruled out. Many refute his claims, and assert that other symptoms are from illness and not from teething.

Treatment

There are many items on the market to soothe the baby beast. Just remember, as frustrating as it is for you to listen to all the crying and wailing, have your sleep disrupted, and go through a pound of wash just on ‘drooly’ bibs, it’s that much more for the poor teething soul. Here are some things you can do to help your not-for-long-toothless toddler.
• Offer teething rings—make sure they are hygienic before giving them to your crumb snatching ankle biter.
• Give a baby toast like zwieback to help move the teeth through while ensuring the risk of choking is minimal. Never leave your child unattended while eating. DO NOT give carrots, bits will break off and cause a BIG choking hazard.
• Keep the child’s face wiped clean of drool to aid in the prevention and healing of facial rashes.
• Often just rubbing your finger on the inflamed gums will soothe the seething, teething toddler.
• Over-the-counter topical analgesics are sometimes helpful during sleepy times.
• An anti-inflammatory like acetaminophen for children is sometimes used, especially if accompanied with fever. DO NOT give children aspirin without the consent of your pediatrician.
If diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, fever, or rashes persist, consult with a physician to rule out any other cause.

As always, lots of hugs and kisses to soothe the teary-eyed teether.

-Anne

Do you have any home remedies for teething? Comment and share them with us!

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