As a parent, you watch with joy as your child grows up at an amazingly fast rate. It seems like one day they’re a newborn, and the next they’re asking to borrow your car keys. In between, you’ll have lots of precious moments to savor — and, of course, some challenges. One of the first challenges you’ll face is when your little one starts teething. Your family dentist in Williamstown is here to talk about this important milestone.
When Do Babies Start Teething?
The average age for babies’ first teeth to erupt is between five and seven months. However, if your child starts teething before that or after that, don’t be alarmed. A child may be as young as one month or as old as 18 months when that first little pearly white makes its debut. If you have a little princess, she’ll probably grow teeth a bit earlier than if she were a little prince.
Before any teeth are visible, you’ll start to notice the symptoms of teething in your baby. These include:
- Swollen, bulging gums
- Congestion
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- The tendency to try to suck or chew on anything
- Rubbing their face
When you suspect your baby’s teeth are about to show up, keep an eye on the front lower portion of their gums — that’s where the first little chompers usually appear.
But what if your child reaches 18 months of age and there are still no signs that teeth are on their way? Then you may need to schedule an appointment with your Williamstown dentist for your little one. X-rays may reveal if there are any problems that are hindering the teeth from appearing.
Helping Your Baby Through Teething
Growing teeth can be an uncomfortable process for your baby, but there are some things you can do to mitigate their discomfort:
- Massage their gums using a finger or moist gauze pad. The pressure might ease some of your child’s pain.
- Give your baby a chilled teething ring; the cold temperature may sooth their gums. Just be sure that you don’t freeze the teething ring because you don’t want it to become so hard that it could bruise your child’s gums.
- Give your child a mild painkiller. You may be able to pick up some acetaminophen or ibuprofen in a dose that is safe for your little one.
Caring for Baby’s First Teeth
When you see that first tooth, it’s time to get your little one into a good oral hygiene routine. Brush the tooth gently twice a day and do your best not to give your child a lot of sugary snacks or drinks that could cause the tooth to decay. You should also schedule your child’s first dental visit so a professional can take a look and make sure that all is well with Baby’s changing smile.
Teething can be an exciting and challenging time for parents and children alike. We hope that your baby breezes through this stage and grows a healthy, strong set of pearly whites!
About the Dentist
Dr. Wael Kassem is your family friendly dentist in Williamstown. He enjoys treating patients of all ages, including small children. If it’s time for your baby’s checkup or you have concerns about their first teeth, please contact our office at 856-818-9998.
