Teething is a normal developmental process. New teeth are working their way through the baby’s gums. Usually, the two bottom front teeth appear first. The onset of teething is variable; some babies may begin as early as 3 months while others may not show their first tooth until 12 months of age. The first teeth most often appear about 6-8 months of age.

Symptoms most often seen:

• Increased saliva
• Drooling
• Chewing on things
• Swelling of the gums around the new tooth
• The process may last several days for each tooth

Symptoms occasionally seen:

• Mild irritability and crying
• Mild gum pain
• Possibly low grade temperature (not over 100 F)

NOTE: Teething has NOT been shown to cause diaper rash, diarrhea, significant fever, or runny nose.

Massage the gums:

• Gently massage the swollen gums with your finger for 2 minutes
• Ice, wrapped in a washcloth may be used to massage the gums
• Repeat the massage as often as needed :

Teething rings and other ideas:

• Teething rings should be made of firm rubber

• Teething rings may be chilled in the refrigerator

• Try letting baby chew on a wet (refrigerator-chilled) washcloth
• Small pieces of chilled banana may help

• AVOID: ice or popsicles, they can cause frostbite of the gum

ADDITIONAL PAIN RELIEF:

Often the above methods are sufficient to comfort your baby during this NORMAL process of development. If the pain increases, acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be used for one day. In general, teething medicines and gels (that you rub on the gums) are not necessary or helpful. They wash out of the baby’s drooling mouth in a very short time. If you really want to try one, do not use it more than 4 times in one day.

• The baby develops significant crying and you can’t find a reason for it
• The baby develops a fever higher than 101° F
• The baby becomes significantly worse
• You have any other questions