Boise Dental Teething Tips For Your Baby

Teething isn’t an enjoyable experience for babies or their parents. While some babies’ teeth will erupt without any problems, it can be a long and painful process for others. Aside from providing your child with plenty of TLC, the Boise dentists at Summit Dental want to provide you with the following dental tips to help care for your little one’s mouth during the teething phase.

The Signs And Symptoms Of Teething

It’s normal for your child to be rather fussy and irritable when he/she finally starts teething. Some common symptoms are a decrease in appetite, increased drooling, and difficulty sleeping. It’s also normal for them to develop a slight temperature increase while teething. However, high-grade fevers are not normal. If your baby seems overly cranky or has a high fever, it’s important to take them to the doctor.

Teething is different for each child. While the average time for teeth to appear is around 4 – 6 months, teething can begin anywhere between 3 – 12 months.

Keep Your Child Comfortable With These Boise Dental Tips

While your baby may seem inconsolable while teething, below are a few Boise dental tips to help soothe and ease their pain:

• Massage their gums. Counter pressure helps to ease teething pain. 
• Give your baby teething rings or toys. Even a simple chilled washcloth can help. Chewing helps soothe a baby as counter pressure helps to relieve pain. However, it’s important to never freeze toys or rings. Instead, you can simply refrigerate them to keep them cool. 
• Relieve pain. Talk to your child’s pediatrician about pain relief if your little one seems to be having a difficult time. The appropriate dosage of Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be beneficial especially during painful teething episodes.

Keep in mind that while teething can be tough, it’s an important milestone just like crawling, walking, and talking. It shows that your little one is on the right developmental track!

Take Proper Care Of Teeth As They Appear

The ADA recommends taking your child to visit their Boise dentist as soon as their first tooth appears and no later than their first birthday. Once teeth start to appear, you can also start brushing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush your child’s teeth twice a day. Since babies and toddlers have not yet learned to not swallow toothpaste, you should only use water at this stage. No toothpaste is necessary unless recommended by your baby’s Boise dentist.

We’re Here To Help From The Very Beginning

Good oral care starts at the very beginning of your child’s life. At Summit Dental Group, we’re here to help you every step of the way! If you have any questions concerning infant oral care or teething, call or make an appointment with us today. Baby teeth may be small but they’re important! Our dentists and dedicated group of staff can’t wait to see your little one’s bright smile!