“How long does teething last?” is a question that first-time parents stress about way too much.
The excitement of seeing our baby’s first pearly whites is immeasurable. Once the tooth erupts, we feel immense joy.
Nonetheless, enough introduction! It’s time to find out everything regarding teething in babies.
Baby Teething Chart
As a parent, I know the hardships of finding correct medical information online, especially regarding my little ones.
So, in the following paragraphs, you can answer your questions and ease your worries with our baby teeth chart(made according to data from the National Health Service).
First come the lower central incisors. They usually come out between 5 and 7 months, while the upper central incisors should appear between 6 and 8 months.
Next are the upper lateral incisors (9-11 months), followed by the lower lateral incisors (10-12 months).
The first molars are the ones that come out next (12-16 months). These teeth are more familiar as back teeth.
Furthermore, we have the canines (my favorite type of teeth!). They should appear between 16 and 20 months.
Last come the second molars between 20 and 30 months. And there you have it, 20 healthy baby teeth! If your baby doesn’t fit these charts, don’t worry. These are just bare averages!
Understanding Teething
Teething is a necessary development stage for every newborn. It is a process where teeth develop, and pop out of the gums.
Through this teething process, you might witness several changes in your baby’s behavior, some good, some bad.
But you must be aware that everything during this process is natural and essential for your baby. So, stay positive and present during this period.
Baby Gums Before Teeth Erupt
Babies’ gums before teeth erupt look cute but are also tense, smoothly inflamed, and hypertrophied (swollen).
Parents can also sense the impression of incoming teeth. Although toothless babies are criminally cute, seeing those pearly whites shine is a priceless feeling!
How Early Can a Baby Start Teething
Every child is unique, even with their teething. Some babies are born with one tooth or pop out their first tooth as early as 3 months old.
But, to satisfy the statistical averages, most babies have their first tooth around five to six months (the lower central incisors).
Please note that if you have any doubts regarding your baby’s teething, visiting a dental office is a must.
It’s even advised to introduce your baby to a dentist as early as three months old. No one is too young for dental hygiene!
How do You Know When a Baby is Teething?
You can always say that parents have a hidden sense of when something’s changing in their children.
When we’re talking about teething, a whole set of signs can help parents understand when their baby’s pearly white will appear.
Many parents live in the myth that fever can be a sign of teething. But, according to experts, that is a big NO.
Many other pointers can mean your baby is teething, including waking up at unusual hours, frequently chewing on objects, and seeking colder food (which eases soreness in gums).
Increased salivation and a sudden urge to use a pacifier more can also help you understand that your baby is teething.
Signs of Teething in Babies
In the following paragraphs, we’ll bring light to the signs of teething in your baby, answering many of your questions.
· Swollen Gums
As we’ve already mentioned, swollen gums are the leading sign of teething in babies. All other signs are linked to this one.
When teeth are supposed to erupt in the baby’s mouth, gums become swollen and red, as a result of the stimulation.
Therefore, your baby might react with discomfort, frequent crying, sleep disturbances, and increased salivation.
· Irritation and Discomfort
As adults, we’ve all felt how irritable it is to struggle with tense and swollen gums. Inflamed gums can bring a feeling of discomfort and pain.
Well, imagine your baby having swollen gums and not knowing how to deal with the pressure. That constant pressure irritates our babies, making them nervous, irritated, and fussy.
· Waking up and Tantrums at Unusual Hours
Sleepless nights arrive with your baby. Teething can also kick-start your baby’s crying engine in the middle of the night. But why?
Teething can cause pain. That means that babies feel it. So, crying and screaming is their way of saying ouch.
In these situations, hug your baby and try out different distractions such as toys, calming music, comforting sounds, and parental love.
· Increased Drooling
Imagine this: You’ve just bathed your little one and dressed it in cute little clothes, only for your baby to drool all over itself a few minutes later.
Intense drooling and salivation are a natural reaction to teeth eruption. Babies’ gums hurt while teething, so saliva eases the pain.
· Increased Chewing
Swollen gum causes an itching sensation in your babies. So, they try to fight back by putting everything in their mouth.
They bite their little fingers, chew on your remote, and drool all over your furniture. Also, your baby’s toys become itching stations.
All things considered, babies are really smart. Increased chewing helps them ease the pain and relieve the discomfort.
Conclusion
That’s about it with teething in babies. One of the most important things during this time is to introduce your little one to the dentist.
Although it can be tough for your babies to overcome the great fear of the dentist, introducing them to a dental chair from a younger age might just hinder the development of such fear.
Nonetheless, the dental office isn’t the only place where you should care about your baby’s dental hygiene.
Turning your home into its own dental office can also contribute to your baby developing a healthy and happy smile.
Make oral hygiene habits a routine at home, but still visit your dentist. Once those teeth start shining, you must take care of them. If not, they won’t shine as much anymore…
ALSO READ: When do Kids Start Losing Teeth?
