The great teething adventure is that special time when your sweet, cuddly baby transforms into a slightly grumpy, yet still adorable little human. Teething is a major milestone, but it often comes with a fair share of worries for parents. You might find yourself wondering, “Is this much drool normal? Should they be this fussy?”
We get it. Navigating your baby’s first set of pearly whites can be tricky. That’s why the Kirkland Kids Dentistry team put together this friendly guide to help you understand what’s typical during teething, what isn’t, and when it’s time to call your favorite Kirkland dentist.
The Great Sprout: What to Expect During Teething
Teething is the process of your baby’s teeth emerging through their gums. It usually starts between six and twelve months of age, though the timing can vary for every child. The bottom two front teeth (central incisors) are often the first to appear, followed by the top two. By age three, most children will have their full set of 20 primary teeth.
As these tiny teeth make their grand entrance, your baby might experience some discomfort. This is completely normal. Their gums are sensitive and sore as the teeth push through. The team at Kirkland Kids Dentistry can help you through the process.
Normal Signs of Teething
If you spot these signs, you’re likely in the midst of teething. Don’t worry, these are all part of the standard playbook:
- Drool, Drool, and More Drool: Prepare for a drool tsunami. Teething stimulates saliva production, so you’ll want to keep bibs handy to protect your baby’s skin from irritation.
- Chewing on Everything: Your baby’s hands, your fingers, toys, the remote control—nothing is safe. Chewing provides counter-pressure on the gums, which can relieve some of the discomfort.
- Irritability and Fussiness: Who wouldn’t be a little cranky with sore gums? It’s normal for your baby to be more fussy than usual, both during the day and at night.
- Sore or Swollen Gums: Take a gentle peek inside your baby’s mouth. You might see red, swollen gums where a tooth is about to pop through.
- Slightly Disrupted Sleep: The discomfort from teething can sometimes interrupt your baby’s sleep patterns. This phase will pass.
- Low-Grade Temperature: Some babies may experience a very slight increase in body temperature. However, a true fever is not a normal symptom of teething.
Red Flags: When It Might Be More Than Teething
While fussiness and drooling are par for the course, certain symptoms are not related to teething and could signal an underlying issue. It’s important to distinguish between normal teething troubles and signs that something else might be wrong. If your child experiences any of the following, it’s a good idea to check in with our trusted Kirkland dentist or a pediatrician.
Symptoms to Watch For
- High Fever: A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is not caused by teething. A fever is the body’s response to an infection or illness, so it’s essential to contact your pediatrician to find the cause.
- Diarrhea or Vomiting: Loose stools or vomiting are not symptoms of teething. These could indicate a gastrointestinal bug or another medical issue that needs attention.
- Severe Rash: While a mild rash around the mouth can occur from excess drool, a widespread rash on the body is unrelated to teething and should be evaluated by a doctor.
- Loss of Appetite for Liquids: A teething baby might be reluctant to eat solids because of sore gums, but they should still be drinking breast milk or formula. A refusal to drink liquids can lead to dehydration and requires a call to your doctor.
- Inconsolable Crying: A certain amount of fussiness is normal, but if your baby is crying inconsolably for long periods and nothing seems to soothe them, it could be a sign of significant pain from something other than teething, like an ear infection.
When Should You Call Our Kirkland Dentist?
Your child’s first dental visit should happen around their first birthday or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first. This initial visit is a great opportunity for you to ask questions and for us to ensure everything is developing as it should.
You should also schedule a visit with our Kirkland dentist if you notice:
- Signs of Tooth Decay: Yes, even baby teeth can get cavities! Look for any white, brown, or black spots on the teeth.
- Injury to the Mouth: Tumbles are a part of toddlerhood. If your child falls and injures their mouth, gums, or teeth, it’s wise to have a professional check for any damage.
- Unusual Tooth Appearance: If teeth appear to be coming in crooked, discolored, or have an odd shape, a visit to our pediatric dentist can provide peace of mind.
- Persistent Gum Bleeding: A tiny bit of blood on a teething toy is usually fine, but if you notice significant or persistent bleeding from the gums, it’s best to get it checked out.
Don’t Go Through Teething Alone
Teething is a temporary phase, and with a little patience and a lot of cuddles, you and your baby will get through it. Remember to provide safe teething toys, gently wipe away drool, and offer comfort when they need it most.
At Kirkland Kids Dentistry, we’re here to support you through every smile, drool puddle, and milestone. If you ever have questions or concerns about your child’s oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is always ready to help guide you and ensure your little one’s journey to a healthy smile is a happy one. Call us today to schedule your child’s first visit with a friendly Kirkland dentist.