how to help ease teething pain?

Usually, you can discern if your baby’s nighttime restlessness stems from teething by observing other typical teething indicators. In addition to sleeping difficulties, these signs typically encompass:

• Irritability or fussiness
• Increased drooling
• Chewing on objects

However, if your baby exhibits a rash (aside from a drool rash), fever, or diarrhea, a cause other than teething may underlie their discomfort. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult your child’s pediatrician for further evaluation and guidance.

1. Provide a gum massage: When your baby wakes up crying due to teething discomfort, consider offering a soothing gum massage using a durable teething ring. Ensure the teething toys are solid plastic and store them in the fridge or freezer for a cooling effect. Regularly check the teething ring for any broken pieces that could pose a choking hazard. Avoid teething jewelry such as necklaces or bracelets made from materials like amber, marble, silicone, or wood, as they pose choking risks, as warned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
2. Offer a cooling treat: Prepare washcloths by soaking them in water and placing them in the freezer for 30 to 60 minutes. These chilled washcloths provide relief to sore gums and can serve as a safe chewing aid for your baby.
3. Allow gumming on your fingers: Permit your baby to gum on your clean fingers for added comfort, and consider dipping your fingers in cool water before offering them for gumming.
4. Apply gentle pressure: Use clean fingers to gently apply pressure to your baby’s gums, providing relief from teething pain.
5. Manage drooling: Regularly wipe your baby’s face to prevent discomfort from excessive drooling. Invest in durable bibs to keep your baby dry and comfortable during the day and night.
6. Use white noise: Incorporate a white noise machine in your baby’s nursery to help them relax and distract them from teething discomfort.
7. Consider medication as a last resort: Consult your baby’s pediatrician before administering any over-the-counter medication like baby acetaminophen (Tylenol). Avoid teething tablets and numbing gels, as they may not provide sustained relief and could pose risks due to their ingredients.
8. Maintain regular bedtime routine: Stick to your established bedtime routine as much as possible to provide consistency and comfort for your baby during teething.
9. Stay calm and reassure yourself: Remember that dealing with teething is a common challenge for parents. Stay positive, maintain perspective, and offer your baby extra cuddles and comfort during this temporary phase.

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Teething signs and symptoms

While the typical timeframe for a baby’s first tooth eruption is around 6 months of age, teething can commence slightly earlier or later. Some infants may sprout their initial tooth as early as 3 months old, while others might not see their first tooth until they reach 12 months old or even later.

As you observe the initial signs of tooth eruption, your baby may exhibit discomfort and distress. This discomfort might temporarily disrupt their sleep and eating habits, leading to increased crying.

Common symptoms of teething in babies include:

• Increased drooling
• Possible reduction in appetite for solid foods
• Irritability
• Biting and chewing on objects
• Rubbing their gums

If your baby, aged between 3 and 12 months, displays these symptoms, they may be in the process of teething, which is generally considered normal and not a cause for concern.

However, it’s essential to recognize that certain symptoms are not typically associated with teething. These symptoms include:

• Fever
• Facial rash
• Coughing and congestion
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Decreased appetite for liquid foods

If your baby exhibits any of these signs and symptoms, it’s important not to automatically attribute them to teething. Instead, contact your pediatrician if the symptoms persist or if your baby appears unwell.

When to see a pediatrician

While most teething symptoms can be managed at home, if your baby appears exceptionally fussy or uncomfortable, it’s prudent to schedule an appointment with their pediatrician for further evaluation.

In infants aged 3 months and younger, fevers are considered serious. If your newborn develops a fever, it’s crucial to contact your child’s pediatrician promptly.

For babies older than 3 months but younger than 2 years, you should notify your pediatrician if they experience a fever that:

• Rises above 104°F (40°C)
• Persists for more than 24 hours
• Appears to worsen over time

Additionally, seek immediate medical attention if your baby has a fever and:

• Appears or behaves very ill
• Shows unusual irritability or drowsiness
• Experiences a seizure
• Has been exposed to high temperatures, such as inside a hot car
• Exhibits symptoms like a stiff neck, severe pain, rash, or persistent vomiting
• Has an immune system disorder or is taking steroid medications

Conclusion