Calling all new moms! We know this time can be stressful so let’s go over some of the basics of Pediatric Dentistry.
First of all, children develop a total of 20 baby teeth. Baby teeth start erupting around 6 months and continue till around 3 years old.
Baby teeth first start to fall out around age 6 and all baby teeth typically fall out by 12-13 years of age. But remember – these ages are just averages; it is completely normal to vary 6 months from the table shown below. Some babies are even born with teeth, these are called Neonatal Teeth, and if they interfere with breastfeeding, see your Pediatric Dentist.
Here are some signs and symptoms your child may experience while they are teething:
- Increased drooling
- Loss of appetite
- Irregular sleep patterns
- Desire to chew and gnaw on everything
- Rosy/Red cheeks
- Swollen gums
- Increased fussiness/irritability
However, drooling doesn’t always equal teething. Salivary glands develop by 3-4 months of age and your baby will not have full control over the muscles around their mouth therefore an increase in drooling can occur.
In addition, babies can be fussy in general and irritability can be associated with other growth spurts occurring.
Some other signs I hear from moms but should instead be consulted by a doctor include:
- True fever (>100.4F)
- Diarrhea (not just loose stool)
- Major facial rash
It is important to evaluate more serious symptoms to rule out other illnesses.
Lasty, here are 4 DIY Teethers you can make right now!
- Wet a washcloth and freeze
- Dip a pacifier in water and freeze
- Make a popsicle of your breastmilk or formula
- Chill a spoon in the freezer
Remember the teething phase will not last forever and be easy on yourself and your baby.
As always like and follow for more tips on Instagram, Facebook, and Tik Tok @socopdo !
