Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Teething

For most babies, the growth of their first set of teeth can be a frustrating experience. The gums become tender and swollen, making babies restless and irritable. Some will quietly grind their gums, others will go into crying bouts, and still others will have difficulty eating or sleeping. Many will find anything they could get their little hands on and bite, which is why a painted or lacquered wooden crib is not advisable.
Teething typically starts by the baby’s third month and ends by the third year, when 20 of their primary teeth have all emerged. The first teeth, though usually the bottom front or central incisors erupt sometime between the fourth and seventh months. During teething, you’ll notice your baby drooling a lot. Wipe off the saliva to prevent a rash.To relieve irritation, gently massage the gums with your finger. Provide your infant with a teething device that doesn’t contain liquid, because it might leak out. Leave it in the freezer and take it out before it becomes rock hard. The coolness will help soothe inflamed gums. You can also do the same with a clean wet cloth be sure to wash it after every use, a thick stump of carrot, or, as the American Dental Association recommends, a sold metal spoon. The chewing aid should be nontoxic and should not break off easily into large chunks and be accidentally swallowed. Naturally, the best thing you can do is to monitor your baby every now and then.

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