First-time Guide: Teething in Babies
What is Teething?
Teething is the process of a baby's milk teeth breaking through their gums. This is an uncomfortable process and can cause swelling and tenderness.
When do babies start teething?
All babies are different, but your baby will probably start teething within their first year. At around 6 months, most babies start teething. Others can start at around 4 months and some after 12 months. In some cases, babies are born with their teeth.
By the ages of 2 or 3, most children have all their milk teeth.
Signs of teething
Some babies have no pain or discomfort when teething. However, in others you might notice:
- Sore gums that may appear different in colour when teeth are coming through
- One red / flushed cheek
- A slightly raised temperature but less than 38°C
- A rash on their face
- Rubbing or touching their ear more than usual
- Dribbling more than usual
- Chewing or gnawing a lot
- Crying more than usual
- Not sleeping very well
Many parents tend to think that diarrhoea is a symptom; however, there is no evidence to prove this.
Teething can lead to your baby having a slightly raised temperature. If they have a fever over 38°C, seem very upset or clearly unwell, do not assume it's teething and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Tips for helping your teething baby
Teething can be painful and distressing for some babies, but there are ways to soothe and make it easier.
- Teething toys — give babies something safe and comforting to chew on while their teeth are coming in. Chilling them in the fridge can help ease gum discomfort, but it's best not to put them in the freezer, as they can become too hard and may hurt your baby's sensitive gums.
- Rub their gums with your clean finger.
- Comforting them can distract them from the pain in their gums.
Other ways to ease teething pain:
- For babies older than 6 months and who have been weaned or are in the process of weaning, you can give them healthy foods to chew on, such as raw fruit and vegetables. Softer fruit like melon is great for soothing their gums.
- If your baby is in pain, you can give them painkilling medicine. Infant paracetamol and ibuprofen can be given to babies from 3 months old. Follow product instructions for dosage.
Must-have products for Teething Babies
Help soothe your little one through the teething stage with MiNiKOiOi and MuslinZ Teething Essentials. Thoughtfully designed to comfort sore gums, absorb dribbles, and provide reassurance, our collection includes plastic-free teethers to gently massage developing gums, highly absorbent quick-drying dribble bibs, and ultra-soft cotton mini muzi comforters. Practical, gentle, and made for everyday use, these essentials help keep your baby comfortable throughout their teething journey.
Shop the MuslinZ Teething Collection
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