What Are the Signs That My Baby is Teething?

One of the biggest things to deal with during your child's first three years are the signs and symptoms of teething. Getting in those pearly whites can be no big deal for some children, but for others – look out!

Some experts don't think that those signs and symptoms of teething are actually caused by teething, and that they just happen to occur at the same time as the teeth erupt. But most parents agree that those incoming teeth do cause their child some aches and pains, and when they see signs and symptoms of teething, they want to help their child through it as best as possible.

Regardless of whether the signs and symptoms of baby teething are truly from teething or just happen to occur at the same time, these signs and symptoms (whether of teething or not) should be paid attention to. If the symptoms are a concern to you, or the fever is higher than 101 degrees, it is wise to take your babe to his doctor. The child could have an ear infection – which is common among those children who are not breastfed.

There are several “typical” things that teething children experience. Your child will likely have one or more of the following signs and symptoms while teething, for toddlers and babies.

Irritability is a common sign of teething. Because those poor sore gums hurt a lot, the baby or toddler can get very grumpy. Children tend to get fussy for other reasons, of course, but this sign along with others is something to expect when your child is teething.

The gums swell and become very sensitive when teething. Some babies and children like to chew on things to alleviate the pain – even an adult's finger will do nicely! If the child likes to chew, it can help to offer them a chew toy or something cold – like a frozen wet washcloth or frozen peas – to chew on.

The swelling of the gums is usually accompanied by excessive drooling. Parents will often need to wipe the baby's face several times a day in an effort to avoid the facial rash that comes when the face is so wet.

Biting is common for children who have sore gums. It can feel good to them to use those new teeth, and gnawing is one way to use them. Once again, giving the child appropriate things to bite is the best way to deal with biting behavior. One place where the baby or child cannot be allowed to bite is their mother's nipple. Children who are still breastfeeding can be taught “no bite” - there is no need to wean the child at a time when they need as much comforting and love as possible. The first time the child bites, the mother should slip her finger in the corner of the baby's mouth the break the suction, then take the baby off her nipple with a firm “no bite.” Then offer the baby something else that he can chew on, like a toy. The baby will understand soon – in fact, this is one of the earliest lessons in discipline.