What To Do When Your Child Is Teething

Most parents wish there were a manual for raising kids. In some cases, such as teething, there practically is. Teething problems are common enough that it's easy for parents to pass along advice on how to deal with them

How can I tell if my child is teething?

Some children will experience no problem when their first tooth breaks through, but in other cases the process is painful for both parents and children alike. If your child is teething you may notice a handful of the following symptoms:

• Trouble eating
• Irritability
• Excessive drooling
• Swollen, and red gums
• Sleepless nights
• Flushed cheeks
• Rubbing gums, biting, or sucking
• Rubbing on the side of the face where the tooth is emerging

Other symptoms might also include a higher temperature prior to the tooth actually breaking through skin, or diarrhea.

Why is teething painful

Teeth buds form inside the gums when the infant is still in the womb. After the infant is born, the teeth start to push their way through the gums. This action causes swelling and discomfort. Teething rings create pressure against the teeth which are breaking through the skin, and can help to relieve a bit of the pain. Sucking, however, will bring blood to the forefront of the gums which also makes them more sensitive. This is exactly why babies may not want to eat during this time.

Teething rings

Teething rings can help to relieve a bit of the discomfort associated with the teething process. Teething rings are made out of safe materials on which your baby can chew. It is best to search for liquid filled products but bear in mind they can leak and solid silicone products will not leak. Any teething rings can be placed in the refrigerator to add additional cooling.

This cooling sensation will aid the gums. Never place the teething rings in the freezer, though, as this could cause the teething ring to break or make it very difficult for your child to gnaw. As a precaution, you should never put a teething ring on a line that you hang around your child's neck, as this can create a choking hazard.

Teething gel

Teething gel can ease the pain and also prevent infection for children. To use teething gel, rub your finger clean and then swap a small amount from your finger onto the sore gums. This antiseptic and anesthetic material will numb the child's gums for around 20 minutes. You should never use teething gels for more than six times each day. It is not good to give young children oral pain medication. If the teething gel is not sufficient, talk to your dentist about other pain relief options.

For more information, contact a dentist such as Dr. Robert P. Mcgraw.