Teething is simple terms is the process of milk teeth erupting in your child’s mouth, from 6 months of age. It is an important milestone in your child’s growing period, though quite often painful and uneasy for both the child and the parent.
HOW TO IDENTIFY TEETHING HAS STARTED?
- Your child is six months or older, one/two gum swelling is noticed in the lower front region
- Frequent fever, rashes, headaches, stomach upset, irritable, not feeding well
- Excessive drooling, biting on objects and toys
WHAT’S NEXT?
- Understand this is a normal pattern and don’t panic, instead work on making the process easy and soothing for your child
- Over the top pain killers are advisable, make sure you ask your pediatrician for the correct dosage
- Use teething rings/soothers after reading all the instructions given, especially the cooling temperature and cleaning. These help to soothe the sore gums and distract the child from pain
- Give them a freshly cut piece of apple, cucumber or carrot to try biting on
- Gently rubbing the gums with a cool gauze piece is also helpful
DO NOT EVER:
- Tie soother/teething ring across your child’s neck, this can be a potential choking hazard
- Never apply honey/glycerine around the gums and put the child to sleep
It is also important for you to understand that each child is different and thus, the teething cycle will also not be the same. What remains the same is your unconditional love and warmth towards your child during this phase!
