As a parent, you want what’s best for your baby’s developing smile. By taking care of their teeth and gums from a very early age, you can help prevent common infections like cavities, gum disease, and other dental concerns that may have long-term effects on their oral health. But one of the first dental “issues” you’ll probably encounter is teething pain. As your family’s trusted kids’ dentist in Brighton, CO, Kids City Dental knows a lot about teething infants and toddlers. Here are some important pieces of information that every new parent should know.
Symptoms of Teething in Infants
Teething is a natural process that every infant goes through, but it can be a painful and uncomfortable experience for both the child (and the parent.) Usually, common symptoms of teething include warning signs like:
- Excessive drooling
- Irritability
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen or tender gums
- Ear rubbing
- Mild fever
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to remember that this is a normal part of the teething process. However, if your child is experiencing a high fever or severe illness, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician. In most cases, teething symptoms come and go after a few days. The only bad news is that with 20 baby teeth to erupt, this process can ebb-and-flow for months at a time.
How to Relieve Teething Pain in Babies
As a parent, there are several things you can do to help relieve your child’s teething pain. Such as:
- Use a clean finger or wet gauze to massage your baby’s gums.
- Provide your child with a refrigerated teething ring or clean, cool washcloth to chew on.
- Offer your child cool, soft foods like yogurt or pureed fruits and vegetables.
- Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used in moderation, but be sure to consult with a pediatrician first.
It’s important to remember that every child is different and what helps for one child may not for another. Be patient and try different methods to find what works best for your child.
The Impact of Teething on Babies’ Sleep
Teething can have a significant impact on your child’s sleep patterns. Discomfort and pain can make it difficult for infants to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night. Here are some tips for helping your child sleep during the teething process:
- Establish a consistent bedtime routine that includes soothing activities like a warm bath or story time.
- Offer your child a sterile pacifier or comfort object to help them fall asleep.
- Use a white noise machine to help drown out any outside noises that may disturb your child’s sleep.
- Consider using a safe over-the-counter pain relief medication to help relieve pain and discomfort when symptoms are at their peak.
Kids Dentist in Brighton
Regular visits to the dentist are an important part of maintaining your child’s oral health. Kids City Dental in Brighton, CO is a trusted kids’ dentist that offers a variety of dental services to children of all ages. From routine cleanings and check-ups to fillings and orthodontics, our team is dedicated to providing high-quality dental care in a fun and friendly environment.
Experts recommend that all children see their family or pediatric dentist around the time their first tooth erupts or no later than their first birthday. These early visits help parents and children alike stay ahead of oral health concerns before major problems ever get a chance to form. Plus, they help children become more familiar with their dentist’s office, reducing the chances of dental anxiety as they grow up.
Schedule A Checkup Today
Proper dental care is an important part of your child’s overall health and well-being. The good news is that teething pain is temporary! By following these tips and visiting Kids City Dental in Brighton, parents can help ensure that their child’s teeth and gums stay healthy for years to come.
