Can I make the teething process more comfortable for my baby?

As their teeth erupt, some babies may become fussy, sleepless and irritable, lose their appetite or drool more than usual. Diarrhea, rashes and a fever are not normal for a teething baby. If your infant has a fever or diarrhea while teething or continues to be cranky and uncomfortable, call your physician.

Some babies may have sore or tender gums when teeth begin to erupt. Gently rubbing your child’s gum with a clean finger, a small, cool spoon or a wet gauze pad can be soothing. A clean teething ring for your child to chew on may also help. Your dentist or pediatrician may recommend a pacifier, teething ring or a special “numbing” salve for the gums.

Teething can be a difficult process for babies and their parents. Newborns often become agitated and restless when their baby teeth begin to emerge. If your child seems uncomfortable, there are a few tricks you can try to give them some relief. Start by using a clean finger to gently rub back and forth over your child’s gums. A cold spoon may work as well. There are also a few devices you can buy for your child to chew or suck on that might provide some relief. One of the most common is a pacifier, but a cold teething ring might be more effective. If nothing seems to work, your dentist may be able to give you a numbing solution to apply on your baby’s gums. The length of the teething process varies by child, but it usually begins sometime after 3 months and could last up to the age of 3.