Is This Teething? A Guide for Concerned Parents
As a parent, few things are more stressful than seeing your baby uncomfortable and not knowing why. If your little one is suddenly fussy, drooling excessively, or refusing to eat, you might wonder: Is this teething? While teething is a natural milestone, it’s often surrounded by confusion and anxiety. Let’s break down the signs, how to soothe your baby, and when to seek help.
—
What Does Teething Look Like?
Teething typically begins around 6 months of age, though some babies start earlier (around 3 months) or later (closer to 12 months). The process can last until age 3, with molars often causing the most discomfort. Here are the most common signs to watch for:
1. Excessive Drooling
If your baby’s shirts are constantly soaked or they’re blowing bubbles like a tiny rapper (as seen in the first photo), teething could be the culprit. Increased saliva production helps soothe irritated gums but can also lead to rashes on the chin or neck.
2. Chewing Everything
Teething babies turn into miniature scientists, testing the chewability of every object they grab—toys, fingers, even your shoulder. The second photo captures this phase perfectly: a determined baby gnawing on a silicone teether.
3. Swollen, Tender Gums
Gently run a clean finger over your baby’s gums. If you feel a hard bump or see redness (like in the third photo), a tooth is likely pushing through. Some babies develop a small blueish “bruise” on the gum, which is normal.
Less common symptoms include mild fever (under 100.4°F/38°C), disrupted sleep, or temporary loss of appetite. However, these could also signal illness, so always monitor closely.
—
How to Comfort a Teething Baby
When your baby’s gums are sore, try these safe, parent-tested remedies:
– Chill (Don’t Freeze) a Teether
A silicone or rubber teether cooled in the fridge (not freezer) provides numbing relief. Avoid liquid-filled teethers, which can leak.
– Massage the Gums
Use a clean finger or a damp gauze pad to apply gentle pressure to the swollen area. Many babies find this soothing.
– Offer Cold Foods
For babies eating solids, chilled yogurt, purees, or a mesh feeder with frozen fruit can ease discomfort.
– Keep Skin Dry
Dab drool frequently with a soft cloth and apply a barrier cream (like petroleum jelly) to prevent rashes.
Avoid amber teething necklaces (choking hazard), homeopathic tablets (safety concerns), and over-the-counter numbing gels (not recommended for infants).
—
When to Call the Doctor
While teething is usually manageable at home, certain symptoms warrant a pediatrician’s attention:
– Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
– Diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy
– Refusal to eat/drink for over 12 hours
– Excessive crying that doesn’t improve with comfort
These are not typical teething signs and may indicate an infection, earache, or other issue. Trust your instincts—you know your baby best!
—
Common Teething Myths Debunked
1. “Teething causes high fevers.”
Reality: Mild temperature rises are possible, but high fevers are unrelated.
2. “All babies hate teething.”
Reality: Some sail through it with minimal fuss! Every child’s pain tolerance varies.
3. “Teeth must come in pairs.”
Reality: Teeth can erupt one at a time or in unpredictable orders.
—
The Big Picture: You’ve Got This!
Teething is temporary, but it can feel endless when you’re in the thick of it. Remember: your calm presence is the best comfort for your baby. Celebrate each tiny tooth—it’s a step toward their first smile, first bite of solid food, and countless adorable grins.
If you’re still unsure whether those symptoms are teething-related, snap a photo of your baby’s gums (like the examples provided) and share it with your pediatrician. Better safe than sorry—and soon, this phase will be just another memory in your parenting journey.
In the meantime, stock up on teethers, keep that camera ready for toothy grins, and know that you’re doing an amazing job navigating this milestone. Those pearly whites will be worth the wait!
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » Is This Teething