Knowing about your Baby’s Teeth

Did you know that you are born with all your teeth already, this means your baby teeth, called the Deciduous teeth, and your adult, or permanent teeth. Baby teeth, also know as milk teeth, primary teeth or temporary teeth are formed when we are in the womb but sit under the gum until they erupt (become visible )  at approximately 6 to 10 months old. The eruption of teeth continues through infancy until around about the age of 2 to 3 years old when the second molars will finally come through.

Baby teeth eruption chart:

Teething:

Usually at 6 months old, a child will start to have their first teeth come through (erupt). The first teeth to erupt are typically the front teeth (central incisors) on the upper and lower jaw. Some teeth will erupt without any pain or discomfort, but some will cause the baby to experience a little bit of pain. Symptoms that your baby is teething are, crying and drooling (more than usual). You may notice that the gum is red and sore, or that the cheek surrounding is flushed and red. Your baby may also want to gnaw and chew a lot. If you do notice that your child is behaving in an unusual manor or is suffering from any unusual symptoms then do not hesitate to contact your doctor.

Tips for Helping your teething baby:

Teething rings: These can help to give your baby something some thing to chew on safely. It may also ease/ cause a distraction from the ache in their gums. You can buy some teething rings that you can chill to help ease that pain also, just make sure you always follow the instructions and never put them in the freezer, check the temperature it needs to be before giving to your baby. Often another good idea is to give your baby hard food such as a slice of apple or carrot stick to chew on, just make sure that you supervise them at all times to make sure they no not swallow anything that has not been chewed.

Teething Gel: For a baby who is over 4 months old, you can use sugar free teething gels, which are available for most chemists. Rub this gently into your baby’s gum to help ease their discomfort. Just make sure that you use teething gel specifically for children, if in doubt then ask the Pharmacist to help you.

Cool drinks: Cool drinks can also help to ease your baby’s discomfort, just make sure that it is sugar free! Usually the best thing to give is water, but make sure it is not too cold.

Playing games with your baby: Sometimes just playing or comforting your baby will take their mind off the pain and will put them at ease if they are feeling unsettled or uncomfortable.

Teething rash: Teething can make your baby dribble more than usual, and this can cause teething rash. Just make sure that you keep your bay’s face as dry as you can by wiping it, if you notice that they are dribbling.

If you have any concerns about your bay’s teeth, or if you are ready to book them in for their first check up then do not hesitate to contact the practice on 01474 537 191 and we can get them booked in for you.