There are some myths and misconceptions about teething that can lead to confusion and make things worse. Let’s separate fact from fiction!
Understanding teething: the basics
Teething is a physiological process that all babies experience, generally from 6 to 12 months. However, it can occasionally begin as early as two months. The first set of teeth to appear are usually the lower front teeth, followed by the upper front pair. By the time a child reaches three years of age, they typically have a full set of baby teeth.
Blaming teething can lead to a missed diagnosis of something else
Often, teething gets blamed as the root cause of more symptoms than it actually comes with. True signs of teething, therefore, will be mild discomfort related to swelling in your baby’s gums as the teeth cut through. Your baby may seem to want to gnaw or chew on things more as a result, pull on their ears or present with a low grade fever of <100.4F. True fevers are not associated with teething!
Blaming teething can lead to a missed diagnosis of something else
If your child develops a fever, congestion, rash, diarrhea, or other abrupt change to their overall health, it’s best not to blame it on teething so that you don’t delay or minimize needed medical care. Assuming that it’s a virus or bacteria is a much more proportionate guess.
Be mindful of misinformation with teething remedies:
Amber necklaces pose safety risks:There's no scientific evidence to support the claim that amber necklaces can alleviate teething pain. In fact, these necklaces can pose choking or strangulation risks, leading the FDA to issue a warning against their use.
Medicated teething gels can lead to serious reactions:The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend pain relievers or medications with lidocaine or benzocaine.
Safe and effective remedies for gum irritation:
Offer non-toxic teething toys.
Chill a clean, damp washcloth in the fridge for your baby to chew on.
Massage your baby's gums with a clean finger or a damp cloth.
Administer infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen, but always consult your baby’s pediatrician first and follow the package instructions.
In short, mild irritation and discomfort is safe to chalk up to teething, but anything else is more likely a virus or bacteria warranting your doctor’s opinion. To manage the mild discomfort that does come with your baby’s teething, stick to safe, non-toxic, cold items to gnaw on.