Deetsie's Heroic Dailies

Most babies get their first tooth during the 7th month.  Some have those as early as 3 months and some won’t have one until after their first birthday.  Teething usually follows a hereditary pattern.  My little boy Jethro’s first tooth came out a couple of weeks ago.  And he’s barely 5 months old.  It’s not a surprise for me because, as my mum said, I had my pearly whites early as well.  Although genes is a factor, there never is a fixed pattern for babies, even for babies coming from the same parents.  For one, my first baby, Ea, had it on her 6th month.

For other babies, cutting a tooth could happen without pain at all, overnight.  For some, it’s a long, drawn out and painful experience.  Others show a visible lump in the gum while some show no visible clue for all those crying until the tooth actually appears.  This is the time where babies need a lot of care and attention.  When babies wail in pain, it’s important, that we, mothers, should keep our head cool and not brush off any more tension to the hurting baby.

Teething babies have these symptoms:  Irritability, drooling, coughing, chin rash, biting and gnawing, ear-pulling, low-grade fever, not sleeping well, mild cold (like a littler runny nose).  It could be any or all of these.  But of course these symptoms are symptoms of other illness as well.  So it’s best to check all the signs first.

So what shall we do to help when the baby is in real pain?  For my baby, the Teething Gel worked wonders.  I place it in the fridge for cooling.  I tasted it myself and it’s yummy!  It numbs the gums a bit.  What worked for me may not work for your baby so here are more (the natural way) tips to remember:

1.  Teething rings, water filled and chilled rubber teething toys (or mom’s fingers) – to provide counter pressure on the gums.

2. Cold food could be helpful as well.   Chilled applesauce or mashed banana.

3.  Water should be given to a teething baby.  Baby needs plenty especially when he’s drooling a lot.

A professional care is always recommended.  Before giving any soothing gel or trying out things on your own, make sure it’s approved by the Pedia.