When your baby is teething, it can be a very difficult time for him, you, and your entire family. If you take into consideration that growing in his first set of teeth can take a couple of years, it is likely that you will want some positive suggestions about how to make this time easier.
While all babies are different, teething is usually the most difficult during the first year. There are three aspects of teething which need to be addressed in order to minimize the problems associated with teething. First, there is the teething itself; second, teething affects a baby’s general mood; and third, many babies have additional symptoms when they are teething.
When you think about the subject, the first thing that probably comes to mind is reducing your baby’s pain and discomfort. One part of this is to help in easing the physical pain. While there are products on the market specifically for this purpose, there are also other things that you can do. The product known as Baby Orajel is quite popular, and is useful to many babies. If you decide to use this product, it is important for you to follow the instructions on the package. Baby Orajel, when used correctly and sparingly, will ease the pain of teething by numbing the baby’s gums. Many parents also find that their baby responds well to colder or warmer foods and liquids. As each baby is different, trying both will help you to see which your baby responds to the best.
The second part of minimizing his pain is to assist the teeth in coming in effectively. The old-fashioned teething rings are still popular amongst today’s parents because they work. You can choose from hard rubber teething rings or those which are filled with water. Your baby may respond best to a teething ring which has been chilled, or one which is room-temperature. If your baby is allowed to chew on his teething ring whenever he wishes to do so, it will help the teeth break through the gums and grow in properly.
Your baby’s mood is likely to not be up to par when he is teething. He will probably be quite grumpy, and difficult to deal with during this time. TLC– tender, loving care– is essential when he is feeling his worst.
As many babies do experience other symptoms along with teething, it is a good idea to be on the alert, and to know what to do if they occur. Fever is one common problem associated with teething. While there are pain relievers specifically made for babies, you should check with your doctor before giving anything to your baby. Although some babies may have adverse reactions to pain medications, there is also the possibility that a fever could be the sign of an ear infection, which requires medical attention.
Some babies also experience diarrhea when they are teething. This, too, should be addressed to your doctor. He may recommend dietary changes instead of over-the-counter preparations.
An important point to keep in mind is that teething will not continue indefinitely. It is a milestone stage in your baby’s life which, if dealt with properly, will result in a happy child and a beautiful set of teeth.
