Teething Baby: Signs, Symptoms & Soothing Tips

What Is Teething? Teething is a significant milestone in your baby’s development, but it can also be a trying time for both babies and parents alike. As tiny teeth begin to break through the gums, it’s normal for babies to experience discomfort and a variety of symptoms. Understanding what to expect can help you offer the right support and comfort during this phase.

1. Increased Drooling

One of the earliest signs that teething is starting is excessive drooling. As your baby’s gums prepare for the arrival of new teeth, the salivary glands work overtime. You may notice that your baby’s clothes or chin become wet from all the extra drool. While it can be a little messy, it’s completely normal and nothing to be concerned about.

How to Help: Keep a clean, soft cloth or bib handy to gently wipe away the drool and avoid irritation on the skin. Applying a gentle moisturizer to your baby’s chin can also help protect the skin from becoming chapped.

2. Chewing and Biting

Teething often causes discomfort, and babies instinctively chew on things to relieve the pressure they’re feeling in their gums. This could mean gnawing on toys, fingers, or even your clothing!

How to Help: Offer your baby safe teething toys, like rubber or silicone teething rings, which are designed to soothe sore gums. You can also chill these toys in the refrigerator to provide extra relief.

3. Irritability and Fussiness

Teething pain can cause discomfort, leading to a generally fussy and irritable baby. This may be especially noticeable during the day when your baby’s gums are more sensitive. They might cry more than usual or seem generally unsettled.

How to Help: If your baby seems extra cranky, try offering extra cuddles and comfort. Gently massaging their gums with a clean finger or giving them a cool teething ring might also help. Some babies find relief from a gentle rocking motion or a calming lullaby.

4. Changes in Sleep Patterns

Teething can disrupt your baby’s sleep routine. The discomfort from new teeth breaking through can cause your baby to wake more frequently during the night. This phase can be tough, especially if your little one was previously sleeping through the night.

How to Help: Comfort your baby when they wake up and provide soothing techniques like gentle rocking, a pacifier, or a favorite blanket. If needed, check with your pediatrician about using any teething gels or over-the-counter pain relief, especially if the discomfort is affecting their sleep.

5. Loss of Appetite

Some babies experience a temporary loss of appetite or a preference for cold foods during teething. The pressure from the teeth pushing through the gums can make eating more uncomfortable.

How to Help: Offer soft, cool foods, like chilled fruit purees or yogurt, to make eating more comfortable. If you’re nursing or bottle-feeding, your baby may prefer to nurse or drink in a different position to avoid putting pressure on their sore gums.

6. Mild Fever

A slight increase in body temperature (up to 100.4°F or 38°C) is sometimes associated with teething. While teething might cause a low-grade fever, a high fever or prolonged illness may indicate something else, like an infection, and you should consult your pediatrician.

How to Help: Keep your baby cool with a fan or light clothing. Offer extra fluids to keep them hydrated, and keep a close eye on their temperature. If the fever persists or rises above 101°F, it’s important to check with your doctor.

7. Ear Pulling or Cheek Rubbing

Because the jaw, ears, and cheeks are all connected, some babies will pull on their ears or rub their cheeks when they’re teething. This is a natural response to the discomfort in their gums.

How to Help: Offer your baby teething rings, a chilled washcloth, or a soft toy to chew on. Gently massaging the jaw or cheek can also provide some comfort and ease the discomfort.

8. Changes in Stools

Some parents notice that their baby’s bowel movements change during teething. This can include looser stools or an increase in frequency. While this can sometimes happen, if your baby experiences diarrhea or signs of a more serious illness, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.

How to Help: Keep your baby clean and dry, especially during teething, and offer plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If the changes in their stools are persistent, a pediatrician can help determine if it's due to teething or another cause.

How to Comfort Your Baby Through Teething

While teething can bring challenges, it’s also a temporary phase. The discomfort will pass as each tooth emerges, and you’ll be able to look back at these moments as part of your baby’s growth. In the meantime, here are some additional tips to help soothe your baby:

• Cold Compress: A chilled washcloth or a cold teething ring can bring relief. Just make sure it’s not too cold to avoid irritating your baby’s gums.
• Gentle Massage: Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger to help ease the discomfort.
• Distraction: Sometimes a little distraction, like a favorite toy or a song, can take your baby’s mind off the discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While teething is generally harmless, there are times when you should contact your pediatrician. If your baby develops a high fever, has prolonged diarrhea, or shows signs of an ear infection, it’s important to rule out other causes of discomfort. Your doctor can provide guidance on how to manage teething pain and ensure your baby’s health.

Final Thoughts

Teething can be a challenging phase for both babies and parents, but with a little patience and understanding, it’s manageable. Offering comfort and relief, whether through teething toys, soothing techniques, or extra cuddles, will help your little one through this transition. Before you know it, your baby will have a smile full of tiny teeth, ready for all their new adventures!

Teething might be tough, but you’re not alone in this journey. Every stage brings new challenges and joys, and your baby is lucky to have you by their side every step of the way.