The first teeth (also known as milk teeth or deciduous teeth) have usually developed before your child is born.
They normally start to break through the gum from at around six to nine months old. Usually the bottom front teeth come through first, followed by the top front teeth (central incisors) and then the top and bottom incisors either side (lateral incisors). Most children will have around eight teeth by their first birthday, although this is just an average.
The first molars (back teeth) start to come through at about 12 to 14 months, followed by the canines (next to the lateral incisors) at 16-18 months and finally the second molars at 18-30 months. The full set of first teeth is usually through by the age of two and a half years. Teething can start as early a 3 months and continue to 3 years old. Rarely, your child may be born with one or two teeth or will have a tooth emerge within the first few weeks of life. This does not give cause for concern unless the teeth interfere with feeding.
The movement of new teeth in the jawbone and as they push through the gum can cause some discomfort, although this should stop as soon as the tooth appears. Some babies may have a hard time with the emergence of each tooth, whereas others sail through the experience.
Symptoms of teething include:
- swollen gums
- red, hot cheeks
- excessive dribbling
- nappy rash
- changes to sleep pattern
- and/or appetite increased tendency to chew objects
- general irritability
- pain
Treatment
There are several things that you can try to help relieve the discomfort of teething:
- Rub a small amount of infant teething gel onto the affected gum area with a clean finger and gently massage it into the gums. Some of these contain a mild local aneasthetic to dull the pain. Alternatively, use infant liquid paracetamol (e.g. Calpol).
- Your child may benefit from a homeopathic remedy such as chamomilla. Remedies specifically for teething are available from pharmacies, supermarkets and health food stores. A qualified homeopath can provide more individualised remedies in stronger potencies if required.
- A chilled teething ring may distract the child whilst helping to soothe their sore gums. Be sure to take the ring out of the freezer before it becomes rock hard to avoid bruising already sore gums. Never tie a teething ring around a baby's neck.
- Chewing on hard biscuits, frozen bananas or chilled raw carrot can help but should be given under careful supervision (in case a large piece breaks off in the mouth).
- Apply a little petroleum jelly or aqueous cream around the mouth and chin to prevent soreness from excessive dribbling and wipe your baby's face often with a cloth to remove the dribble and prevent rashes from developing.
- Never place an aspirin against the tooth and don't rub whisky on your baby's gums.
If you are uncertain, always check with your dentist or health visitor.
This article has been adapted from the NHS 24 website
