Managing Your Child’s Teething Pain

Teething isn’t a fun part of life, for babies or for their parents! Some babies breeze through teething without any symptoms at all, and other babies are in for a long and painful process. Here at Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry, we know that oral health begins before teeth have even erupted! We want to help parents learn the symptoms of teething and how you can relieve the symptoms.

Signs & Symptoms of Teething

Again, some babies may show no signs of teething at all. But if your child does show symptoms, they may include any of the following:

• Increased drooling
• Red or flushed cheeks
• Swollen or red gums
• Biting on gnawing on objects
• Irritable or unsettled disposition
• Suddenly having a difficult time sleeping

Contrary to popular belief, a rash, fever, or diarrhea are not symptoms of teething.

Relieving Your Child’s Teething Pain

There’s nothing more difficult than watching your child experience pain. Below are a few ways you can help relieve discomfort during teething:

• Offer a chilled pacifier to your baby to gnaw on.
• Massage or apply counter pressure to your child’s gums with a clean finger. 
• Chill a teething ring in the freezer for a bit before offering it to your baby. The coldness will help relieve pain and swelling.
• If your pediatrician has recommended it, you can use an over-the-counter infant pain reliever. Make sure to check the dosage with your child’s doctor before administering any medication.

If you have questions or concerns about the way your child’s teeth are developing, please don’t hesitate to contact Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry at our Greensboro, NC child’s dental office.