When a baby begins to teethe, it is usually not a particularly pleasant experience for parents or the infant. No parent wants to see their child in pain and it is also likely to cut back on the amount of sleep they are able to obtain. Understanding how to soothe a teething infant can go a long way toward reducing their discomfort and alleviating alternative issues.
Symptoms of a Teething Baby
Familiarizing yourself with the symptoms of a teething baby allows you to determine when soothing methods should be implemented. An infant may be teething if they show a rash around their mouth. This is often caused due to the excessive drooling that is present with a teething baby. Swelling or inflamed gums often indicate that a baby is teething. In addition, a baby that is teething may show signs of irritability or a loss of appetite.
Soothing a Teething Baby
If your baby is teething, there are several methods you may be able to implement to lessen or alleviate the pain. To minimize the likelihood of rashes, try to gently wipe away drool when it accumulates around the mouth. You may also put toys or a wet washcloth in the fridge. This coolness may help to reduce some of the pain and swelling. Ensure that they aren’t too cold, however, because this can simply exacerbate the pain. Massaging the gums can similarly help to reduce the pain of a teething baby. Take care to wash your hands before, as the infant is vulnerable to infection from bacteria. In severe cases, you may be able to use baby pain relievers to alleviate pain, but be sure to check with your doctor prior to this. Finally, ensure that you give your baby lots of attention and cuddles during this time.
Teething is by nature an uncomfortable experience. Taking the steps necessary to alleviate and minimize pain can help to soothe the pain and keep your baby as happy as possible. It is important to take your child to see a dentist after their first tooth has erupted. This will help them to build good habits early on. To schedule your early infant care dental visit, contact us at Kids Dental Barn today.