Are you the parent of a little one with sore, swollen gums starting to sprout their first tooth? Or perhaps your tiny tot is already several teeth deep in the teething process and you're wondering how long does teething last?
Teething can be an uncomfortable time for both baby and parent, but luckily it doesn't last forever. In this blog post, we'll dive into everything related to teething - including how long does it last and what are some of the best remedies for pain relief!
What Is Teething?
Teething is the process by which a baby’s first tooth starts to come in, breaking through the gums. It usually begins between 4 and 7 months of age and involves much more than just those tiny little teeth popping up.
As the tooth works its way through the gums it oils them in preparation for its eruption and during this time babies may experience sore, red, and sometimes swollen gums as well as increased dribbling, irritability, and fussiness due to discomfort in their mouth.
Those with teething babies will often find relief can be offered through various ways such as lightly rubbing or massaging the babies’ gums with your finger or feeding them a chilled but not frozen teething ring or other approved teether.
Read More: Why Do Babies Fight Sleep?
What Are The Most Common Teething Symptoms
Baby teething symptoms include:
• Drooling
As your teething baby grows and develops, you’ll start to notice an increase in drool! Saliva production increases when the Baby's teeth begin to emerge, which can often leave your baby’s face wet.
While drooling is extremely common in babies, they can't control it yet so it’s important to keep them nice and dry by changing clothes, towels, and bibs frequently. When your baby's saliva production is at its peak, be sure to use thicker bibs or even shoulder cloths for extra protection!
• Sore Gums
As baby teeth begin to emerge, it often causes tenderness and soreness in the baby's gums. This can make them feel uncomfortable and fussy during the teething process.
To ensure your baby's teeth are developing healthily, it's wise to have them seen by a pediatric dentist to check that the teeth are coming through properly. If preferred, cooled teething relief products such as a frozen pad or water-filled ring can be provided for extra relief.
• Gnawing
Your baby may begin gnawing on items such as toys or even their fingers in antrorse their discomfort from teething. You can help soothe your baby’s gums by offering them something cold or damp like a chilled washcloth or frozen fruit slices for them to chew on.
• Low-Grade Fever
Some babies may experience a low-grade fever when teething, usually between 99-101 degrees Fahrenheit (37-38 Celsius). If your baby’s fever continues for more than 24 hours or exceeds 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius), contact your pediatrician immediately.
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Tips & Remedies For Teething
As a parent, you may be worried about the pain and discomfort your baby might experience during teething, but there are some tips and remedies to help them through the tough times.
- Many parents have found success with amber teething necklaces, which are thought to release an oil that is believed to lessen inflammation and soothe the teething pains.
- Keeping your baby's teeth clean and healthy by brushing regularly can go a long way in preventing tooth decay.
- Teething toys made from rubber or plastic can provide a much-needed distraction as babies chew on them during their teething process.
- Lastly, it is important to remember that teething babies eat less than usual; therefore, parents need to pay special attention to their nutrition. All in all, if you want to successfully navigate your little one’s teething process then utilizing these tips and remedies will serve you well.
Timeline For Teething
- The first tooth typically begins to break through around six months old but can occur earlier or later depending on when your child started teething.
- Middle teeth, located in between the front teeth and molars, usually begin to come in around 12-14 months old.
- Upper middle teeth will likely be visible by 16-18 months old.
- Molars are typically the last set of teeth that come in, appearing around 24-30 months old.
- By 3 years old, all 20 baby teeth should be present and accounted for!
Read More: When Do Babies Get Easier?
FAQs
What Helps A Teething Baby Sleep?
Offering pacifiers and cold, wet washcloths for the baby to chew on can ease their discomfort and make it easier for them to drift off to sleep.
Keeping their surroundings dark and quiet and swaddling them in the soft fabric can also give your baby the sense of calm they need to drift off into sweet dreams.
Additionally, apply pressure through a gentle massage or holding an ice pack against the affected area.
Does Teething Affect The Immune System?
Teething is thought to increase inflammation in the body which weakens the body's natural defense against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Furthermore, when a baby is teething they tend to drool more, leading to an increased chance of catching cold or other illnesses.
So while it is not definite, it appears that there could be a connection between teething and the weakening of our immune system.
Can Teething Cause Vomiting?
Yes, it can! Teething is a natural process in which the baby's first set of teeth pushes through the gums, causing painful discomfort. While it is a normal part of growing up, it can result in some unusual side effects such as vomiting and excessive drooling. To ease your child's discomfort during this time, offer appropriate teething products like rubber toys and cold/frozen foods for soothing relief.
Read More: How To Clean A Baby's Tongue
Conclusion
All in all, teething is a process that most infants go through. It can be difficult to determine how long it will last for your child specifically, but knowing the general timeline and symptoms can help you prepare. If you have any concerns about your child's health or development during this time, don't hesitate to reach out to their pediatrician.