Teething is a common experience for most toddlers and is considered one of the major developmental milestones of early childhood. However, this process can be accompanied by several symptoms and issues, including mild to moderate discomfort, irritability, and even pain. As a parent, it is essential to understand the teething signs and available treatments to provide your child with the necessary support and comfort. This blog will discuss the common teething signs, issues and treatments to help you take care of your teething toddler.
Teething signs are different for each child, but there are some common symptoms that parents can look out for. The most common teething signs include:
· Drooling: Excessive drooling is a common sign of teething as the baby’s saliva production increases in response to the inflammation of the gums.
· Chewing: Toddlers tend to chew on anything they can get their hands on, including toys, clothing, and even their own fingers, to relieve the discomfort in their gums.
· Irritability: Teething can be quite uncomfortable for toddlers, leading to irritability, fussiness, and crying.
· Loss of appetite: Some toddlers may refuse to eat or drink due to the discomfort caused by teething.
· Sleep disruption: Teething can cause discomfort and pain, leading to sleep disruptions and night-time waking.
In addition to the teething signs, there are several issues that may arise during the teething process, including:
· Diarrhoea: Teething can cause digestive discomfort, leading to diarrhoea.
· Rash: Excessive drooling can cause a rash around the mouth and chin.
· Fever: In rare cases, teething can cause a low-grade fever.
To help relieve the discomfort of teething, there are several treatments that parents can try, including:
· Teething rings: These are rubber or silicone toys designed specifically for teething toddlers, allowing them to chew and soothe their gums.
· Cold teething toys: Keeping a teething toy in the fridge for a few hours can help provide a cold and soothing sensation for the gums.
· Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve teething pain, but should only be used with a doctor’s recommendation.
· Teething gels: Teething gels can be applied directly to the gums to provide a numbing sensation, but again, should only be used with a doctor’s recommendation.
In conclusion, teething is a natural and normal process that most toddlers go through, but it can be uncomfortable and even painful. Understanding the teething signs, issues, and treatments can help parents provide their toddlers with the necessary comfort and support during this stage. If you have concerns about your child’s teething, it is always best to consult with a Paediatrician.
