02/09/2022
👶🏼🦷
Many babies start teething around 6 months but all babies are different, some get teeth when they are 4 mths, some not until they are 1 and older and in rare cases babies can be born with a tooth or more!
Some babies’ teeth will appear with no issues at all and others will experience discomfort.
According to the NHS these are the signs to look out for:
🦷 red and sore gums
🦷 disturbed sleep
🦷 a flushed cheek
🦷 pulling or rubbing their ear
🦷 dribbling more than usual
🦷 chewing on things
🦷 Fretfulness
Anecdotal evidence suggests that some children will get a fever and diarrhoea but there’s no official evidence to support this.
💚Helping a teething baby
Massage.
You can help provide some teething relief by carefully massaging their gums in a circular motion with a clean finger.
Distract with play.
Try talking, singing action songs or encouraging your child to play with his or her favourite game, this may help distract them from their teething woes.
Teething rings.
Some teething rings can be cooled in the fridge, which may help to soothe your baby's gums. Never put a teething ring in the freezer as it could damage your baby’s gums if it is frozen. Never tie it around your baby’s neck as it could be a choking hazard.
Finger Foods
If your baby is 6 months or older you can give them healthy food to chew on. Always stay close to your baby while they are eating in case they choke and need your help.
Cuddles.
Make sure your baby gets lots of hugs. Sometimes, the biggest comfort for a teething baby can be cuddle time with their grown ups.
Wipe Away the Dribble.
One of the common signs of teething is constant dribbling. This can give your baby a sore rash around their mouth. Gently wipe the dribble from your baby’s mouth from time to time to help prevent pain or soreness associated with a skin rash or irritation.
There are teething gels available but according to the NHS there is a lack of evidence that these are effective. It is recommended that parents try non-medical options for teething first. If you do decide to use a teething gel or medication please speak to a pharmacist.
Source: NHS