How to Identify Symptoms of Teething

Teething is a natural process that all infants go through. While some babies don't appear to be severely affected by the eruption and appearance of their new baby teeth, others experience a wide range of symptoms that cause distress, not only to baby, but to parents and caretakers as well. Teething is normal and involves the growth of 20 baby teeth that generally occurs between six-months-old to three-years-old for most infants. Teething cannot be prevented, but learning how to identify symptoms of teething may help parents and caretakers to realize that baby's behavior or reactions are normal and can be relieved through various observations and processes. Read on to learn how to identify symptoms of teething.

Things You'll Need

• Teething rings or chewies
• Cold washcloth
• Oral ointments

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Instructions

• 1

  Pay attention to the amount of saliva produced by your baby's mouth. Excessive salivating is a sign that teething is or is about to occur. This excessive saliva production, aka 'drooling' will prompt the baby to chew on anything he or she can get their hands on. Make sure that baby can't put things in his or her mouth that may cause choking.

• 2

  Look at your baby's gums. If they are red or appear swollen, chances are that teeth will soon erupt. Gently rub your finger or a cool, soft washcloth on baby's gum lines several times a day or as often as it seems to provide relief and comfort for baby.

• 3

  Watch for signs of irritability, crying or clinging in your child. Because babies can't express discomfort or pain, they most often cry to express any type of physical distress. While crying and clingy behavior may cause some parents and caregivers some stress, it is important to comfort the child as much as possible. Parents may rub oral non-prescription tooth pain relievers on the gums several times a day to relieve symptoms. Always follow instructions on package, or ask the pharmacist or your pediatrician for advice on application techniques.

• 4

  Listen for indications that your child is having difficulty sleeping. While most often, this symptom is caused by teething, also be alert to any signs that your child is ill. Take their temperature and pay attention to urine output and conditions of the stool. If something unusual or different than normal is observed, schedule a visit with your pediatrician.

• 5

  Watch for signs of teeth on the lower front of the jaw, followed soon after by teeth in the upper front of the jaw. Girls often 'cut' their teeth sooner than boys. If areas appear red or irritated after teeth erupt, notify your pediatrician.