{"id":2511,"date":"2015-01-16T16:04:52","date_gmt":"2015-01-16T16:04:52","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.childrens-dental.com\/blog\/?p=2511"},"modified":"2015-01-16T16:08:15","modified_gmt":"2015-01-16T16:08:15","slug":"teething-and-dental-care","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.childrens-dental.com\/blog\/teething-and-dental-care\/","title":{"rendered":"Teething and Dental Care"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Teething can be a painful experience for babies (and parents), but fear not, there are remedies to help get through it. Before suffering sets-in, there are a variety of options for treating the symptoms without medications.<\/p>\n

Teething typically starts between four and seven months. The central incisors, either the two front or bottom teeth usually come in first followed by the first molars, then the canines.<\/p>\n

Pain relievers that you rub on the gums may offer temporary relief, but they tend to wash out of the baby\u2019s mouth within minutes of applying. A better alternative is to occupy your little gnawer with teething \u201ctoys.\u201d A teething toy distracts baby from the discomfort of the pain, and can be something as simple as a wet washcloth that has been left in the freezer for a few minutes. The cloth is safe and soft for them to chew on and the cold helps to numb and soothe the gums. If you don\u2019t have a teething toy handy, your finger can be a good substitute, temporarily (as long as it is clean).<\/p>\n

For babies 6-9 months old, introduce a slow-flow sippy cup and fill it with cold water; the coolness of the water and sucking on the top can offer some relief. Remember to clean teething toys after each use and know that it is absolutely fine to allow your baby to chew all day, especially if it is providing them relief from the pain!<\/p>\n

First dental visit<\/strong><\/p>\n

As soon as your infant\u2019s first tooth appears you should begin cleaning their teeth and gums on a daily basis. Simply brush them with a child\u2019s soft toothbrush. When a baby is going through the teething process their gums tend to swell and are tender. Take care when brushing and try massaging the gums beforehand to ease your baby\u2019s discomfort.<\/p>\n

Just like older children and adults, babies are susceptible to tooth decay. Until they are old enough to learn, parents should take certain measures for prevention:<\/p>\n