How Can I Help My Child With Teething Pain?

All parents look forward to seeing their child’s first tiny tooth. However, the time leading up to this momentous event can be tough on kids and parents alike. When a child is teething, they can be uncomfortable and in pain. But the good news is that your pediatric dentist in The Woodlands knows some ways to help ease your child’s discomfort while allowing you to get a break from a teething baby. 

Is My Child Teething? 

Keep in mind, all children will react differently to teething, but there are some tell-tale signs that your child may be teething. Your baby may become fussier than normal, constantly put things in his mouth, or nibble on his fingers all the time. Excessive drooling can also mean a baby tooth is getting ready to erupt. If you’re not sure if your child is teething, you can always ask your pediatric dentist in The Woodlands or gently can feel around the gum line for a tiny tooth ready to make its appearance. 

3 Teething Tips 

Once you know that your baby is teething, you may be in need of some remedies to ease pain and make your baby more comfortable. Remember, finding the best way to help your child with teething can take some trial and error. 

• Ice – Cooling the gums can help reduce teething pain. However, don’t use actual ice cubes. Instead, wet a washcloth, seal it in a bag, and freeze it. Remove it after an hour and allow your child to nibble and suck on the cold washcloth. 

• Massage – Who doesn’t love a good massage? Well, this simple action can help your baby during teething, too. Use a clean finger and gently rub your baby’s gums to relieve pain. Applying light pressure can give a bit of extra relief. 

• Teething Rings – Teething rings can be either soft and rubbery or made of wood. Both can help your child during teething as they combine the power of massage and pressure into one. 

If you try these tips a few times and they don’t seem to work for your baby, call your pediatric dentist in The Woodlands for additional help. 

A Word of Advice

• Never put a pacifier or teething ring in the freezer. They can become too hard and hurt your baby.  
• Don’t use topical pain relievers that contain benzocaine. They’re not recommended for use in infants and children and could lead to serious health issues.

When your little one starts to sprout some teeth, it’s time to start thinking about scheduling her first appointment with your pediatric dentist in The Woodlands. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children see the dentist no later than six months after their first tooth, or by age one.

About The Author

Dr. Leslie Blackburn

Dr. Leslie Blackburn always knew she wanted to work with children and decided to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry. She enrolled at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, where she received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery and Master of Science in Dental Education. She finished the last leg of her education at Yale University, where she obtained her certificate in Pediatric Dentistry.

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