You’re Child is Starting to Get Their First Tooth… Now What?”

We have all gone through the endless “growing pains” as we get older. One of our first experiences of the getting new teeth in as an infant is the one parents most notably recognize. Typically around age 6-8 months old, infants will start to grow their first set of teeth. During this time, your child is starting to develop other recognizable systems as well in their little bodies, and is becoming more aware of their body and surroundings. Children will continue to go through the phases of getting new teeth in and eventually shedding of the baby teeth as they grow through adolescence.

Many infants have no apparent difficulties while growing new teeth. However, there can be intermittent localized areas of discomfort and irritability while the infant is starting to recognize a new tooth is erupting, or growing into the mouth. Some children will have increase drooling as a new tooth is erupting as well. If your child is developing a fever coincidentally during this time, seek consultation with your child’s pediatrician for a cold or flu.

Here are a few tips to help with your with any discomfort your child might be experiencing:

• Cold (not frozen) teething rings
• Warm toothbrush bristles brushed around the gums
• Gently rubbing your child’s gums with a clean, wet washcloth or a cold spoon
• Oral analgesics as needed and used as directed
• Avoid using topical anesthetics or over-the-counter “teething gels” as there is a high potential for toxicity in children.
• Avoid using Amber” necklaces as there is a high chocking potential
• Come see us with any concerns or questions

The best thing to do for your child as they have new teeth growing into the mouth is to brush their teeth and keep them clean! Bacteria can linger around and on top of the gums. Before new teeth come in, brush with a soft bristle toothbrush or oral wipes containing Xylitol. As new teeth erupt into the mouth, bacteria will then start to live on the teeth. The process of “teething” diminishes and the discomfort is less and less as your child gets older.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists recommends a dental visit by age one to look at your child’s mouth, discuss growth and development, and to guide you on how to prevent cavities.