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How do I handle baby’s teething?

When babies begin to teethe, even babies with the most pleasant disposition can turn monstrous!

The signs of teething include drooling, a rash around the mouth or an urge to chew on anything your baby can get his hands on. Other signs include nappy rash and a mild fever (his temperature will not rise more than about one degree above normal as a result of teething). When you put your finger along the ridge of your baby’s gums, you will find elevated bumps on the gums. The tell tale sign is his level of fussiness and tearfulness, which will be drastically elevated. Your baby may have trouble sleeping or refuse to eat even though he is hungry.

Cool items for your baby to place against his gums will help alleviate his discomfort. Teething toys can be placed in the freezer. Many mums dampen a wash cloth and then freeze it for their baby to chew on. Paracetamol (available as Calpol over the counter for full-term babies of two months or more and weighing 4kg or more) can help with the symptoms as well.  Some parents prefer more natural remedies like teething tablets. If your baby is old enough for solid foods, he may appreciate some cold apple sauce or yogurt.

Teething can prompt babies to bite their playmates and caregivers. The process of teething is uncomfortable for your baby. He is suffering, which is why he is so cranky and irritable.

Teeth can make their appearance between four and seven months of age. However, some early achievers will sprout their first tooth at three months. Other babies wait for an entire year for their first pearly white. Babies can sometimes teeth for a prolonged period of time before the tooth erupts from the gums.

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