Dealing with Teething: A Pediatric Dentist’s Advice
Teething is a significant milestone in your baby’s development, but it can also be challenging for parents and children. At Dentistry for Children, Dr. Shelly Clark, a leading pediatric dentist in Cedar Hill and Midlothian, offers expert advice to help you and your little one easily navigate this period. Understanding what to expect and how to alleviate discomfort can make all the difference. What is Teething? Teething is when an infant’s first teeth, also known as primary or baby teeth, erupt through the gums. This typically begins around six months of age, although it can vary widely among children. The first teeth to appear are usually the lower front teeth, followed by the upper front teeth. By age three, most children will have a complete set of 20 primary teeth. Signs and Symptoms of Teething Recognizing the signs of teething can help you provide timely relief for your baby. Common symptoms include: Tips for Easing Teething Discomfort Dr. Shelly Clark and the team at Dentistry for Children recommend several strategies to help soothe your baby’s teething discomfort: Use Teething Toys Teething toys are designed to be chewed on and can provide significant relief. Choose toys made from safe, non-toxic materials. You can chill some teething toys in the refrigerator for extra soothing power. Gentle Gum Massage Gently massage your baby’s gums using a clean finger or a damp gauze pad. This massage can help reduce pain and discomfort. Cold Washcloth A chilled washcloth can be a tremendous teething aid. Let your baby chew on it to help numb the gums and reduce swelling. Over-the-Counter Remedies For severe discomfort, you can use over-the-counter teething gels and pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, always consult with Dr. Clark or another pediatric dentist before administering medication. Maintain Oral Hygiene Even before the first tooth appears, good oral hygiene is essential. Wipe your baby’s gums daily with a clean, damp cloth to remove bacteria and prevent infections. When to See a Pediatric Dentist While teething is a natural process, there are times when you should seek professional advice. Dr. Shelly Clark suggests visiting a pediatric dentist if your baby experiences any of the following: The First Dental Visit Dr. Clark recommends scheduling your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Early dental visits help establish a dental home and allow parents to learn about proper oral care for their children. Long-Term Oral Health Establishing good oral hygiene habits early sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth. Here are some tips to promote long-term oral health: Top Pediatric Dentist in Cedar Hill and Midlothian Teething can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can help your baby navigate this phase smoothly. At Dentistry for Children in Cedar Hill and Midlothian, Dr. Shelly Clark and her team are here to support you every step of the way. If you have any concerns or need additional advice, please get in touch with our Midlothian or Cedar Hill pediatric dentist office. Your child’s comfort and health are our top priorities.