In a baby’s life, teething is a significant developmental milestone. Parents frequently have questions regarding the phases of teething and what to anticipate when their child’s first set of teeth begins to erupt. Here are the various stages of teething in infants, the warning signs and symptoms, and recommended advice to assist in alleviating discomfort.
Eruption of the First Teeth
Although it might vary from newborn to baby, teething usually starts between 4 and 7 months. The lower front teeth, commonly called the central incisors, are typically the first to erupt. Many infants may not show any observable symptoms during this first period but can occasionally cause slight pain.
Eruption of the Incisors
The upper central incisors emerge during the second teething stage, followed by the lower lateral incisors on both the upper and lower jaws. These teeth erupt next to the central incisors. Babies may drool more, have swollen gums, and be mildly irritable. They could also need to chew or bite at things to relieve their agony.
The appearance of the First Molars
The first molars start to erupt in the rear of the mouth between the ages of 12 and 16 months. These more prominent, flatter teeth might show more noticeable symptoms, such as increased irritation, disturbed sleep patterns, and a propensity to put things in one’s mouth to calm sore gums. The eruption of the molars might be delayed and be accompanied by gum sensitivity and moderate irritation.
The arrival of the Canine Teeth
The cuspids, called the canine teeth or eye teeth, usually emerge between the ages of 16 and 20 months. The lateral incisors are close to these pointed teeth. A canine eruption can cause symptoms, including greater sensitivity, drooling, aching gums, and a desire to chew on things. A short-term change in a baby’s feeding or sleeping schedule is possible.
The Appearance of the Second Molars
The eruption of the second molars, typically between the ages of 20 and 30 months, marks the end of the teething process. These molars situate behind the first molars in the rear of the mouth. Second molar development can result in symptoms comparable to those of the first molars, such as sore gums, heightened irritability, and an urge to chew on items.
Tips to Ease Teething Discomfort
- Gently massage the baby’s gums with a clean finger or a moist towel.
- Give the infant chilled teething rings or a fresh, cold washcloth to gnaw on to provide the infant with short-term respite.
- Provide the baby with secure, BPA-free teething toys that they can bite to soothe sore gums.
- If required, speak with a pediatric dentist about the proper over-the-counter painkillers or teething gel dosage.
- To assist in calming the infant through this unpleasant stage, give more love, attention, and comfort.
Parents can more confidently manage this normal developmental process by being aware of the teething phases in newborns. Each stage comes with its own unique set of difficulties.
If you are a parent struggling to manage your baby’s teething process or have queries regarding their challenges, specialist pediatric dentists at Dr Joy Dental Clinic can help you identify the symptoms and provide appropriate guidance to help comfort them. Feel free to contact us at 80037569 or book a consultation for expert advice or with our specialist pediatric dentists.
