A Helpful Guide For Teething Tots

As parents and caregivers, we all understand that teething is a necessary, albeit difficult, stage for our little ones. Woodlawn Kids Dental, a leading authority on kids’ oral care and health, provides enlightening commentary and helpful advice based on their experience in children’s dentistry—(Nemours Kids Health, Teething Tots, medically reviewed by Larissa Hirsch, MD, https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/teething.html?ref=search ).

What is teething?

Teething is the process where a baby’s teeth, also known as deciduous or primary teeth, break through the gums. This can be a tough time for both babies and their parents due to the discomfort and irritability it can cause.

“At Woodlawn Kids Dental, we witness the difficulties of teething firsthand. It’s crucial to remember that every child experiences teething differently, and it is a significant milestone in kids’ oral health journey,” states Woodlawn Kids Dental.

When does teething start?

Typically, teething begins anywhere from 3 to 12 months, with the central bottom teeth usually appearing first. Woodlawn Kids Dental comments, “In our practice, we often see the first teeth appear around the six-month mark. However, this varies significantly, and there’s no need for parents to panic if their child starts teething earlier or later.”

What are the signs of teething?

Common signs of teething include drooling, irritability, disturbed sleep, refusal to eat, and a tendency to bite or chew on hard items.

In their expert opinion, Woodlawn Kids Dental notes, “Parents often come to us worried about their child’s teething symptoms. We assure them these are normal, but if symptoms become severe or persist for an extended period, they should also seek advice from a pediatrician.”

How can I make teething easier?

There are numerous strategies to help ease the discomfort of teething. These can include using teething rings, damp washcloths, or even your clean finger for your baby to chew on. “At Woodlawn Kids Dental, we believe in providing comprehensive solutions for kids’ oral care. We recommend using FDA-approved teething toys or a clean, damp cloth cooled in the refrigerator. A gentle gum massage can also offer relief,” advises Woodlawn Kids Dental.

How should I care for my baby’s teeth?

Once the first tooth has emerged, starting good oral health practices is crucial. This includes gently cleaning the tooth with a soft infant toothbrush. However, oral care for infants should begin well before the first tooth emerges. Woodlawn Kids Dental adds, “Regular cleaning is a vital aspect of kids’ oral health. Use a toothbrush designed for babies, and introduce fluoride toothpaste as recommended by your children’s dentist. Remember, early oral health habits set the foundation for lifelong dental health.”

Woodlawn Kids Dental stresses the importance of making the first dental visit by the child’s first birthday or within six months of the first tooth appearing.

“Regular dental visits ensure your child’s oral health. We recommend bringing your child to a children’s dentist early on. This helps in establishing a dental home and sets the stage for a positive attitude towards dental health,” Woodlawn Kids Dental concludes.

In conclusion, teething is a challenging stage for both children and their caregivers. However, armed with the correct information and a trusted children’s dentist by your side, navigating this period can be made easier. Trust the expertise of practices such as Woodlawn Kids Dental for reliable and comprehensive kids’ oral care.