TEETHING

(Cutting Teeth; Tooth Eruption)

 Basic information

description

Teething is a normal process that occurs when a baby's teeth grow and break (erupt) through the gums. New teeth erupt continually from around age 6 months to 3 years. On average, the first set of teeth is complete soon after the second birthday. Between ages 6 and 12 years, children lose their baby teeth, which are replaced with adult teeth.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Excess saliva production, drooling, and chewing on anything the baby can hold.
• Pain(This symptom cannot be proven, but probably does occur).
• Gums may become red or swollen.
• Irritability.
• Fretful and clinging.
• Difficulty in sleeping.
• Crying more than usual.
• Teething should never be considered the cause of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, prolonged loss of appetite, earache, convulsions, cough, or diaper rash. These are symptoms of an illness.

causes

Teething is normal. There are 20 baby (or primary) teeth and 32 permanent teeth.

risk increases with

Teething problems are not related to any known risk factor.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Teething problems cannot be prevented, but the symptoms can be relieved.
• The timing of teeth eruption is highly variable. However, the sequence of normal tooth eruption in children is:
  • First teeth (lower front teeth) at about 6 months, sooner in girls than boys. Teething may start as early as one month or as late as one year. Rarely, a baby is born with one or more teeth visible.
  • Complete set of baby teeth by about age two and a half.
  • First adult teeth at about age 6.
  • Bicuspids (side teeth) between ages 10 and 12.
  • Permanent molars at about age 12.

expected outcomes

Teething discomfort can be partially relieved.

possible complications

None expected.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your baby's health care provider will examine the baby's mouth and gums and any new teeth at well-baby check-ups. Follow any special instructions.
• Rub the child's gums with a clean finger; this is very comforting.
• Freeze a wet washcloth for the baby to chew on.
• Offer the child a safe, one-piece teething ring. It can be cooled in the refrigerator (don't freeze the ring).
• Don't put anything into the baby's mouth that might cause choking. Don't tie anything around the neck.
• Sucking a thumb, finger, or pacifier will not harm the baby's teeth. If sucking continues after age 3, talk to your child's dentist to see if there are any concerns.
• Clean new teeth and gums with your finger using a soft washcloth. When the teeth are bigger, start brushing them with a baby's toothbrush.
• Wipe baby's face often using a soft cloth to remove drool to help prevent rashes.
• Begin regular dental visits at age 6 to 12 months.
• At age five, explain to the child that losing baby teeth is normal. This prevents the child from becoming concerned when tooth loss begins.

medications

Medicine is not usually needed for teething. In some cases, the baby's health care provider may suggest an oral or topical pain reliever.

activity

No limits.

diet

• Don't let your baby go to bed or walk around with a bottle with milk in it. Milk that stays in contact with the teeth for a long time can cause decay.
• Start your baby or toddler off to a healthy diet that will promote healthy teeth. Avoid too many sweets, sticky foods, or constant snacks during the day.

 notify our office if

• Your child's temperature rises above normal.
• Signs of infection such as pain, pus, a lot of swelling, or very red gums occur.

Special Notes: