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DO YOU REMEMBER<\/b> what it felt like when your adult molars were coming in? Sore, puffy gums and a lot of tenderness when chewing? Well that\u2019s what teething is like for toddlers too, except it\u2019s the first time in their lives anything like this has happened, and it can be very upsetting for them \u2014 and their parents. Here are a few tips to follow to help a teething child.<\/p>\n#1: Learn to Recognize the Signs of Teething<\/h3>\n
Be on the lookout for incoming teeth starting around the six month mark.<\/strong> The lower front teeth usually appear anywhere between then and the first birthday. During this time, you might notice some changes in your child\u2019s behavior that are actually symptoms of teething.<\/p>\n They might be less willing to breastfeed, drool excessively, reject foods they used to enjoy, have difficulty sleeping, or become generally irritable. They might also avoid biting, chewing, or sucking on things \u2014 or start biting, chewing, and sucking on everything they can reach!<\/strong><\/p>\n Not everything is a teething symptom, and it\u2019s important to be aware of the difference because it could mean something else is wrong. A runny nose, fever, or diarrhea aren\u2019t connected with teething<\/strong>, but they may be symptoms of a virus. If they continue or get worse, take your child to see the pediatrician.<\/p>\n Teething happens in stages, not just all at once or all in the same way. The eruption stage is when the baby teeth travel up through the gum tissue from the jaw bones. After eruption comes cutting, when the teeth finally break through the gum tissue to become visible. These stages are both painful, but babies and toddlers don\u2019t have the words to explain that. Instead, they will probably act cranky and tired<\/strong>, and they might get picky about their food and eating times.<\/p>\n There are a few ways we can help teething babies and toddlers through this uncomfortable stage of development. If possible, continue breastfeeding, which can reduce the pain of teething.<\/strong> Make sure to give them something to chew on, like a teething toy. It can help the teeth cut through the gums faster while soothing the discomfort.<\/p>\n Be careful to avoid teething toys that contain PVC, BPA, or phthalates. These chemicals are meant to make toys last longer, but recent studies have shown that they can be harmful<\/strong> if a child consumes them.<\/p>\n Is the toy solid or gel-filled? If the latter, is it sturdy enough to stop your child from getting to the gooey center not meant to be consumed by humans? It might be good to look for a toy that can be chilled in the fridge<\/strong> and has a clip to fasten it to your child\u2019s clothing.<\/p>\n#2: Also Recognize what ISN\u2019T a Sign of Teething<\/h3>\n
#3: Be Familiar With the Stages of Teething<\/h3>\n
#4: How to Soothe a Teething Baby<\/h3>\n
#5: Choosing the Right Teething Toys<\/h3>\n