Teething is the term for the normal eruption of an infant’s first set of teeth. These “baby teeth” erupt through the gum tissue, which leads to sore, tender gums. Teething usually begins when a child is six- to eight-months old. Once a baby begins teething, a new tooth usually appears each month until all teeth are in place at approximately 2 ½ years of age. The bottom front teeth are usually the first to appear, followed by the top front teeth, then the molars. Once the child reaches 6 or 7 years of age, the baby teeth begin to fall out and are replaced by the permanent teeth. The growth of permanent teeth is not painful.
Possible Causes of Teething Teething is a normal stage of growth for babies.
Possible Symptoms of Teething Some babies experience discomfort while teething, while others do not. Some signs of teething are restlessness, drooling, rubbing the gums, sore gums, increased sucking, irritability, increased chewing, reduced appetite and inflamed gum tissue. Teething is normal and does not result in diarrhea, sleeplessness, cough, rashes or fever.
Possible Lifestyle Changes for Teething Teething babies like to chew on hard, cold objects. Try offering a chilled teething ring or cold, wet washcloth. Do not give a baby teething rings with liquid inside (they could break) or anything that could be swallowed. Never freeze a teething ring -- the cold could damage tender gum tissue. Do not tie a teething ring around the baby’s neck -- he could choke. Rub the gums with a clean finger or gauze to soothe the pain.
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