Understanding Teething and Gum Pain
Teething is a normal stage of a baby's development when the first teeth begin to emerge through the gums. The timing varies from one child to another, but many babies begin getting their first teeth during the first year of life.
As a tooth moves through the gum, the surrounding area may become tender or swollen. Your baby may drool more, want to chew on objects or become slightly more irritable than usual.
Mild gum discomfort, increased chewing and drooling are common during teething. A high fever, persistent diarrhoea or significant illness should not automatically be blamed on teething.
Common Signs Your Baby May Be Teething
- Swollen or tender gums.
- Increased drooling.
- A greater desire to bite or chew objects.
- Mild fussiness or irritability.
- Rubbing the gums or putting fingers in the mouth.
- Temporary discomfort around the area where a tooth is erupting.
1. Gently Massage Your Baby's Gums
One of the simplest ways to provide temporary relief is to gently massage the sore area of the gums with a clean finger.
Wash your hands thoroughly before placing a finger in your baby's mouth. Light pressure on the swollen gum can be soothing and may reduce discomfort for a short period.
2. Offer a Chilled Teething Ring
A firm teething ring gives your baby something safe to chew and provides gentle pressure against sore gums.
You can cool the teething ring in the refrigerator before giving it to your baby. The cool surface may help soothe tender gums.
Chill teething rings according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid giving your baby objects that are frozen solid, as they may be too hard for sensitive gums.
3. A Safe Pacifier or Teether May Help
Some babies feel more comfortable when they can suck or chew on a clean pacifier or age-appropriate teething toy. Choose products specifically designed for babies and inspect them regularly for cracks, tears or damage.
Always follow the manufacturer's age and safety recommendations.
4. Try Safe Chilled Foods When Your Baby Is Ready
If your baby has already started eating suitable solid foods, age-appropriate chilled soft foods may sometimes provide relief.
Soft chilled fruit can be more suitable than hard pieces of raw vegetables. Always prepare food in a form appropriate for your baby's age and stage of feeding.
Never leave your baby alone while eating. Avoid hard pieces of foods such as raw carrots that could break off and become a choking hazard.
5. What About Pain-Relief Medicine?
Most babies need only simple measures such as gum massage and chilled teethers. If your baby appears particularly uncomfortable, speak with your paediatrician, dentist or pharmacist about an appropriate pain-relief medicine.
The correct medicine and dose depend on factors such as your baby's age, weight, medical history and the product being used. Always follow professional advice and the instructions supplied with the medicine.
Do not estimate a medicine dose yourself. Ask your child's doctor, dentist or pharmacist when you are unsure about the correct medicine or dosage.
6. Be Careful With Teething Gels
Teething gels and numbing products are widely available, but they are not always suitable for babies and may provide only short-lived relief.
Certain numbing ingredients used in oral gels can be unsafe for young children. Do not use a teething gel simply because it is available over the counter. Ask your paediatrician, dentist or pharmacist before using any medicine on your baby's gums.
Teething Remedies to Avoid
- Do not give your baby hard foods that can break into choking-sized pieces.
- Avoid teething rings or objects that have been frozen until very hard.
- Do not apply pain-relieving or numbing gels without professional advice.
- Avoid amber teething necklaces because they can present choking and strangulation risks.
- Do not give medicines without checking the correct age and dose.
When Should You Consult a Doctor or Dentist?
Teething usually causes only mild discomfort. Contact your baby's paediatrician or dentist if symptoms appear severe or you are unsure whether they are actually related to teething.
Seek professional advice if your baby has a significant fever, persistent diarrhoea, excessive crying, difficulty eating or drinking, appears unwell or has symptoms that continue or become worse.
Start Caring for Baby Teeth Early
Oral care should begin as soon as your baby's first tooth appears. Keeping primary teeth healthy is important for eating, speech, development and maintaining space for permanent teeth.
- Begin cleaning teeth as soon as they erupt.
- Use an age-appropriate toothbrush.
- Avoid putting your baby to sleep with sugary drinks.
- Limit frequent sugary foods and drinks as your child grows.
- Ask your dentist about the right fluoride toothpaste for your child.
- Schedule your child's first dental visit at the recommended age.
Conclusion
Teething is a normal part of growing up and the discomfort is usually temporary. Gentle gum massage, chilled teething rings, safe teethers and careful supervision can help make this stage more comfortable for your baby.
If your baby's discomfort seems unusual or you are unsure about medication or teething products, speak with a paediatrician or dentist before trying additional remedies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I soothe my baby's gums during teething?
Gently massage the sore gums with a clean finger or offer an age-appropriate chilled teething ring or teether.
Can I refrigerate a teething ring?
Many teething rings can be chilled in the refrigerator. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid giving your baby something frozen solid.
Can teething cause fever?
Teething may occur alongside mild fussiness and gum tenderness, but a true or significant fever can have another cause and should not simply be assumed to be from teething.
Can I give medicine for teething pain?
If your baby is very uncomfortable, ask your paediatrician, dentist or pharmacist about a suitable medicine and the correct dose for your child's age and weight.
Are teething gels safe for babies?
Some numbing teething products are not recommended for young children. Speak with a healthcare professional before applying any medication or gel to your baby's gums.
