Emergencies

Teething

Most babies begin teething between four and seven months old. Once teething starts, there are many possible symptoms you may notice. Common symptoms include:

• Swollen, tender gums. Chilled teething rings or other items appropriate for infants may help soothe their gums.
• Fussiness and crying
• A slightly raised temperature (less than 101°F)
• Wanting to chew on hard things
• Drooling
• Rubbing their cheek or lips, or pulling their ear
• Bringing their hands to their mouth
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

While it can be concerning, these symptoms are normal, and do not typically require a visit to an emergency department or urgent care facility. In fact, teething is one of the most common and unnecessary dental-related reasons for medical facility visits, even though little can be done.

What to do

• One of the most effective ways to avoid problems with teething is to keep your baby's teeth and gums clean. Within the first few days after birth, wipe your baby's gums gently after every feeding using a clean, damp washcloth or gauze. Don't forget to wipe the tongue as well. This will help reduce harmful bacteria that can create an environment for future tooth decay. It will also help them get used to having their mouth cleaned when their teeth begin to appear.
• When teething begins, it's time to contact a pediatric dentist for your baby's first dental visit. When you call, tell the dentist that your baby has started teething, and ask what steps you can take to make them more comfortable based on the symptoms they are showing.
• If your baby is drooling, be sure to gently wipe the drool off with a damp cloth to avoid facial rashes.
• If your baby's gums are bleeding, or you see any sign of infection or swelling, call the pediatrician or dentist right away.
• While teething can cause your baby some pain or discomfort for a while, it doesn't usually make babies sick.
  Diarrhea, vomiting, rashes, a higher fever, or cough and congestion, are not normal signs of teething. If your baby has any of these symptoms, call your pediatrician immediately.

Author: Symbyos staff, Fluent staff
Last updated: 6/2/2021 • Medical review: Thomas J. Greany DDS, 2/7/2021
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