Teething is a significant phase in a child’s growth journey, often filled with both excitement and challenges. Understanding the signs and knowing the best ways to ease your child’s discomfort can make this stage smoother and less stressful for both parents and child.
Crystal of the Sea has compiled 11 clear signs your child is teething, along with practical solutions to help relieve their pain.
11 Common Signs of Teething in Children
1. Excessive Drooling
Your child may drool more than usual, often soaking their clothes or bedding. This natural response helps soften food and aids swallowing, but can also cause rashes on the chin and cheeks due to constant moisture.
Solution: Keep the area dry and use hypoallergenic moisturisers to prevent irritation.
2. Increased Biting
Teething babies tend to bite anything within reach, from toys to even your fingers! The pressure helps soothe itchy and sore gums.
Solution: Offer BPA-free teethers, preferably chilled in the fridge, to provide added relief.
3. Fussiness and Irritability
Discomfort from teething often makes babies cranky, difficult to soothe, and prone to crying or tantrums.
Solution: Comfort your child with cuddles and gentle play. A cold damp cloth can also provide gum relief.
4. Reduced Appetite
Children may refuse to eat, especially solid or textured foods, because chewing can worsen gum pain.
Solution: Serve soft, easy-to-swallow foods like yoghurt, porridge, or pureed fruits. Ensure hydration with milk or water.
5. Sleep Disturbances
Teething can disrupt sleep due to persistent gum discomfort, making it hard for your child to fall or stay asleep.
Solution: Establish a calming bedtime routine with soft music, dim lighting, and gentle massages.
6. Swollen Gums
The gums may appear red, swollen, and tender, sometimes even warm to the touch. Occasionally, a small bluish lump may indicate an erupting tooth.
Solution: Gently massage the gums with a clean finger or soft cloth.
7. Mild Fever
A slight increase in body temperature (around 38°C) is common during teething, but high fever requires medical attention.
Solution: If fever persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult a paediatrician.
8. Tugging at Ears or Cheeks
Your child might tug or rub their ears and cheeks due to shared nerve pathways that transmit gum discomfort to nearby areas.
Solution: Distract with toys or play, and continue gum massages.
9. Diarrhoea
Some babies may experience mild diarrhoea due to increased saliva swallowing, which can affect digestion.
Solution: Keep your child hydrated. See a doctor if diarrhoea is severe or persistent.
10. Skin Rashes
Excessive drooling can cause red, irritated skin around the mouth and chin.
Solution: Wipe the area regularly and apply baby-safe moisturisers to protect the skin.
11. Cough and Runny Nose
Saliva dripping down the throat may cause mild coughs or nasal congestion.
Solution: Use a humidifier to moisten the air and keep your child hydrated. Consult a doctor if symptoms worsen.
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5 Effective Solutions to Soothe Teething Pain
1. Teething Toys
Provide your child with teething rings or toys made from safe, BPA-free materials. Chilled teethers can provide additional soothing.
2. Gum Massage
Gently rub your child’s gums with a clean finger or a cold, damp cloth to reduce pain and swelling.
3. Soft and Cold Foods
Offer soft, cool foods like chilled yoghurt, mashed fruits, or frozen breast milk popsicles to ease gum discomfort.
4. Pain Relief Medication
Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help alleviate pain and fever—but always consult your paediatrician for appropriate dosage.
5. Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress to the jaw or cheeks can help soothe soreness. Limit each session to 15-20 minutes, several times a day.
Teething is a natural but sometimes uncomfortable milestone. By recognising the signs and applying these solutions, you can help your child feel more comfortable and supported.
While your child is going through teething, ensuring proper nutrition is crucial. Crystal of the Sea offers healthy powder like White Anchovy Powder, made from fresh anchovies.
These snacks are rich in protein, calcium, and omega-3 essential for growth and development, including strong teeth and healthy oral motor skills.
Click here to explore more nutritious options from Crystal of the Sea!
References:
- https://bebeclub.co.id/artikel/tumbuh-kembang/4-6-bulan/tanda-pertumbuhan-gigi-pada-bayi
- https://www.siloamhospitals.com/informasi-siloam/artikel/fase-pertumbuhan-gigi-pada-anak
- https://www.alodokter.com/seperti-ini-ciri-ciri-bayi-tumbuh-gigi
- https://www.halodoc.com/artikel/ibu-perhatikan-tanda-tanda-awal-bayi-tumbuh-gigi
