Pain caused by Teething
What is Teething?
Teething is the process in which a baby's teeth break through their gums. It's a normal part of infant development, usually beginning when a baby is around 4 to 7 months old and continuing until the age of 3. Most babies have their full set of 20 baby teeth by the time they turn 3 years old.
What Causes Pain During Teething?
The pain associated with teething is caused by pressure exerted by the new tooth pushing against the gums and is often referred to as teething pain. Some babies may develop sore and swollen gums during this period, as well as tenderness. Also, as the tooth pierces through the gums, it often produces an uncomfortable feeling.
What Are the Symptoms of Pain Caused by Teething?
Teething pain can cause a variety of symptoms in babies including:
- Excessive drooling
- Crying
- Biting or gnawing on objects
- Mild irritability or fussiness
- Swollen, tender gums
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Ear-pulling or cheek-rubbing
- Diarrhea
Treatments for Teething Pain
Fortunately, there are a few different treatments that can help relieve teething pain for babies. These include:
- Cold teething rings
- Chewing on a clean, wet washcloth
- Gently massaging their gums with a clean finger
- Giving them cold foods or beverages such as ice pops or icy fruit juices
- A topical oral pain reliever such as Orajel
- Over-the-counter teething gels
When to See a Doctor
It's important to speak with a doctor if your baby experiences any of the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- High fever
- Signs of an earache
- Refusal to eat or drink
- Excessive fussiness
