Teething Babies Need Oral Hygiene

teething babyScotts Valley and Santa Cruz, CA

Teething is a challenging time in life both for the child and the parents. A baby who is teething is prone to irritability, fussiness, insomnia or decreased appetite. A low-grade fever also is common.

No two children are alike when it comes to teething. Typically, baby teeth begin to emerge from the gum line between the ages of four and six months, but teething can start anywhere between the ages of three and 12 months.

When teething begins, it is important to start a regimen of oral hygiene for your child. The American Dental Association suggests taking your child to the dentist for the first time as soon as the first tooth appears, or no later than his or her first birthday—whichever comes first. Once teeth begin to emerge from the gum line, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your child’s teeth twice daily using only a light smear of fluoridated toothpaste.

Here are some tips to help soothe your child during the teething process.

  • Massaging your baby’s gums by using a simple counter pressure of one finger can help to ease the pain from teething.
  • Use teething rings or toys to soothe your child. A chilled washcloth can have a similar effect. When chilling rings or toys, refrigerate them. Do not freeze.
  • Pain relief can be available if your child is having so much discomfort as to be inconsolable. An appropriate dose of acetaminophen can be administered. We recommend avoiding any teething medications containing the pain reliever benzocaine.

Despite the discomfort your child feels, teething is an important milestone. It is another stage of normal development—just like crawling, walking and saying those first words.

Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry can provide comprehensive oral health care for your child at every stage of development. Contact our office at (831) 438-4411 to schedule a consultation.

Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry serves patients located in the California communities of Los Gatos, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley.