Teething Help and Tips
When does teething begin?
Babies can get their first tooth anywhere between 3–15 months, but commonly between 4–9 months – although discomfort may start earlier. Dribbling at 3–4 months is usually as a result of your baby learning to put things in their mouth, which is part of normal development.
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What can you do to help relieve teething pain?
- Rub your baby’s sore gums gently with your finger.
- Give your baby a teething ring – either a soft rubber one, or the plastic type that are cooled in the refrigerator.
- If you think your baby is in pain, consider giving paracetamol as directed for the child’s age.
- Avoid hard sharp-edged toys that could damage teeth and gums.
What not to do when baby is teething
- Don’t dip dummies or teething rings in honey or sweet foods, as it may lead to dental decay (and honey shouldn’t be given to babies under 12 months for health reasons).
- Don’t suck your baby’s dummy and give it back to them, as you will transfer bacteria from your mouth to theirs.
Signs of teething
- Rosy, flushed cheeks.
- Increased dribbling.
- Tugging at ears.
- Chewing on everything.
- Tender swollen gums.
- Irritability.
- Disturbed sleep.
- Poor appetite.
- Loose, frequent stools.
- Sore red bottom or rash.
Note: Generally, teething does not cause a fever. If your baby has a high temperature, see your doctor.
