Teething and oral care

Teething is a significant milestone in a baby’s development, often marked by discomfort, drooling, and an increased desire to chew on objects. While teething can cause challenges for both babies and parents, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of good oral care practices from an early age. Establishing healthy habits during this time can set the foundation for a lifetime of strong teeth and gums. This article delves into the teething process, signs to look for, the impact on oral health, and the key oral care steps to follow during this phase.

Understanding the Teething Process

Teething refers to the process of baby teeth (primary teeth) emerging through the gums. Typically, this begins at around six months of age but can vary. Some babies may get their first tooth earlier, while others may not experience teething symptoms until after their first birthday.

The primary teeth generally come in pairs, starting with the bottom front teeth (lower central incisors), followed by the upper front teeth (upper central incisors). The complete set of primary teeth usually emerges by the age of 3, with a total of 20 baby teeth. Teething occurs in stages and can cause babies discomfort and sometimes pain as the teeth push through the gums.

Symptoms of Teething

Teething can affect babies in different ways, and the symptoms are not always the same for every child. Common signs include:

1. Drooling: Excessive drooling is one of the most noticeable symptoms of teething. As the salivary glands become more active in response to the eruption of the teeth, babies often drool more than usual.

2. Chewing and Biting: Babies often chew on toys, fingers, or anything they can get their hands on to relieve the pressure caused by the teething teeth.

3. Irritability: The pain and discomfort from teething can cause a baby to be fussy, cranky, or unusually clingy.

4. Swollen Gums: As the tooth begins to emerge through the gum, it may cause swelling and tenderness.

5. Sleep Disturbances: Teething can make it harder for babies to sleep through the night due to discomfort or the need for extra soothing.

6. Loss of Appetite: Babies may refuse food or have difficulty eating due to sore gums.

7. Low-Grade Fever: While a mild fever may accompany teething, it should not be high or last for an extended period. A higher fever might indicate an illness unrelated to teething.

Teething and Oral Health

Teething is a natural process that helps prepare babies for their permanent adult teeth, but it’s also a time when oral care should begin. The eruption of teeth makes babies more prone to dental issues, including:

1. Gum Sensitivity: Swollen, tender gums can make it difficult to practice proper oral hygiene. However, cleaning a baby’s gums is vital even before teeth come in, as it helps prevent bacteria build-up.

2. Bacterial Growth: Even though baby teeth are temporary, they can still develop plaque and cavities if not cared for properly. Left unchecked, bacteria can accumulate on the gums and teeth, leading to potential infections.

3. Early Childhood Cavities: Introducing sugary liquids, especially in bottles that babies can suck on for extended periods, can contribute to the risk of early childhood cavities, a condition that requires professional treatment.

4. Thumb Sucking and Pacifiers: While thumb sucking and pacifier use can provide comfort during the teething phase, excessive or prolonged use can affect the alignment of teeth as they come in. It’s essential to monitor these habits and transition away from them as your child grows.

Oral Care During Teething

Oral care should begin as soon as a baby’s first tooth emerges, even if they’re still teething. Here are some essential tips for maintaining good oral health during the teething process:

1. Clean Baby’s Gums

Before teeth emerge, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp washcloth after feedings. This practice helps to remove any lingering milk or food residue that could lead to bacteria build-up.

2. Introduce a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

Once the first tooth appears, it’s time to use a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for babies. Brush the tooth gently with water and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. This will help introduce the sensation of brushing and remove plaque. Avoid using adult toothpaste, as it contains more fluoride than is safe for babies.

3. Choose the Right Teething Toys

Teething toys can help soothe sore gums. Look for toys made of safe, BPA-free materials. Rubber, silicone, or soft plastic teething rings that can be chilled in the fridge are popular choices. The cooling effect can help numb the pain associated with teething, but avoid freezing teething toys, as they can become too hard and potentially injure the baby’s gums.

4. Use a Teething Gel or Medication (with Caution)

Some parents opt to use over-the-counter teething gels or medications to relieve discomfort. However, it’s important to use these products sparingly and always consult with a pediatrician before using them, as some may contain ingredients that can be harmful to babies, like benzocaine.

5. Provide Cold Foods (If Appropriate)

If your baby has started solid foods, offering chilled or cold food can help soothe teething pain. For babies around 6 months, cold purees, yogurt, or chilled fruit in a mesh feeder can provide relief. Always ensure the food is safe for your baby’s age and development.

6. Monitor for Ear Pain

Teething can sometimes cause discomfort that radiates to the ears. If your baby is pulling on their ears or seems unusually fussy, this may be a sign of teething-related ear pain. In such cases, it’s advisable to check in with your pediatrician to rule out other conditions, such as an ear infection.

7. Avoid Prolonged Bottle Use

While babies may want to soothe themselves with a bottle during teething, it’s important to avoid letting them use a bottle for extended periods, especially with sugary liquids like milk or juice. This can contribute to tooth decay and other oral health issues.

When to See a Dentist

It’s generally recommended that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of the appearance of their first tooth, whichever comes first. Early visits help establish a foundation for good oral health practices and give parents the opportunity to ask any questions about teething and oral care. A pediatric dentist can help address concerns such as thumb-sucking, pacifier use, or teething discomfort and provide advice tailored to your child’s needs.

The Importance of Good Habits

Good oral care habits can make a significant difference in your child’s dental health, both during teething and as they grow. Encouraging your child to brush their teeth twice a day, limiting sugary snacks, and scheduling regular dental check-ups are essential steps in preventing cavities and gum disease. Teaching your child to care for their teeth from a young age will help them develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

Conclusion

Teething is a normal and necessary part of a baby’s growth and development, but it can be a trying time for both the baby and the parents. By understanding the symptoms of teething, managing the discomfort with safe practices, and maintaining good oral hygiene, parents can ensure their babies develop healthy teeth and gums. With early attention to oral care, parents can set their children on a path to a lifetime of good oral health.