Teething is a painful experience for your child because it can cause pain, swelling and irritating. Applying pressure by sucking can relieve the pain. However, the action causes more blood to go to the swollen area. As a result, it makes the area more sensitive and painful, so they refuse to eat and drink.
When babies are teething, they’re sometimes fussier than usual. Soreness and swelling start around three to five days before the tooth appears. The symptoms disappear as soon as the tooth has already broken the skin.
During teething, some babies drool, thereby, causing a rash on their face, chin or chest.
Problems During Teething
Excessive bitingBabies who are undergoing this process are likely to bite or gnaw anything they can find. That’s because they love the pressure caused by chewing or gnawing as it relieves the pressure from their gums. The pressure will offer a temporary pain reliever.
Loss of appetite When your child is teething, his gums are tender and sore, so he’ll typically refuse food. Chewing for him can cause more discomfort so he’ll have no appetite to eat.
Pulling ears or rubbing cheeksThe pain from gum swelling can spread to their ears and cheeks. Because of the discomfort caused by teething, babies tend to rub on their cheeks or pull at their ears. However, this behavior may indicate that the baby is teething, it can also indicate that he’s suffering from an ear infection. If that’s the case, he must be seen by his pediatrician.
How to soothe the pain?
Feed soft foods You should only give your baby with soft foods to prevent further gum irritation and inflammation. Avoid giving him hard foods. Although they may soothe his teeth, they may increase irritation, making it more difficult for him to sleep.
Should you give him a pain killer? You should only give your baby a pain killer after you’ve talked to his pediatrician. If it’s necessary, you should only opt to give your child a pain reliever that's particular for his age. Never give him aspirin because this drug is linked to Reye syndrome. It’s also not recommended to use teething gel to kids younger than two because it may contain benzocaine, which is harmful to your child.
Can teething necklace help? Teething necklaces made with amber can assist in relieving the pain because it contains a natural analgesic. They don’t stop the pain permanently, but they help in comforting and relieving the pain as a result of gum soreness or swelling. Your child will sleep better at night and his discomfort will be reduced.
Should You Call A Doctor?
During your child’s first visit to the dentist, ensure that you told him about what to expect. Help him prepare for his dental examination. Before making a schedule, talk to your child’s dentist first on how your child should behave. He may allow your child to visit his clinic once or twice before he is examined. Doing so will make him more comfortable with the dentist’s office, the environment, and the clinic’s staff.
Not all babies will find it difficult to face teething. If your child is experiencing pain while teething, you may try one of the remedies mentioned above. After his first few teeth come in, the entire process becomes less painful. Also, when the first tooth appears, you should start cleaning it twice a day. Don’t use toothpaste. Rather, rub the tooth gently using a washcloth.