Teething in babies is an extremely complex and multi-stage process. It is one of the biggest concerns for families. The teething process brings about significant changes in the baby's nutrition and development. It is an integral part of the biological maturation process. Dentrum Oral and Dental Health Clinic in Adana has explained the timing and stages of teething in babies for you.
What is teething in babies?
Teething is the process by which teeth, having completed their development within the gums, emerge from the gums and become visible in the mouth. The physiological process encompassing the tooth's transition from its position within the jawbone to the oral cavity is called teething.
Certain changes that occur in the mouth during teething can cause some negative symptoms. These symptoms can negatively affect the quality of life of both the baby and the family. Therefore, families should stay in contact with a dentist regarding the teething period. Taking the necessary precautions and intervening when needed is important for the baby's overall health. The teething period can be affected by some environmental and genetic factors.
Rarely, some babies are born with one or more teeth in their mouths. Conversely, some babies may still not have any teeth by the age of one. This shouldn't cause concern for the family. Teeth in babies born with teeth should be removed because they are not yet strong enough and could cause problems later on. Families should remember that every baby's developmental process is unique. Therefore, you should avoid comparing your baby to other babies and direct your questions to your dentist.
When do babies start teething?
The timing of teething varies from baby to baby. Often, genetic factors determine the timing of teething. It's important for parents to remember that early or late teething is not necessarily a developmental disorder.
One of the developmental stages of babies is the oral exploration phase. Starting from the third month, babies try to put objects around them into their mouths. Parents may perceive this behavior as a sign of early teething. However, this is part of the developmental process and is not directly related to teething.
Teething begins between 3 and 12 months. The first teeth usually start to erupt in the oral cavity around the middle of the seventh month. These teeth, also called baby teeth, are replaced by permanent teeth between the ages of 6 and 12.
What is the teething sequence in babies?
- The front incisors erupt between the fifth and eighth months.
- The lateral incisors erupt at nine and twelve months.
- The first molars erupt between twelve and sixteen months of age.
- Canine teeth erupt between sixteen and twentieth months.
- The second molars erupt between the twentieth and thirty-third months.
After these teeth erupt, the group of 20 teeth known as baby teeth is complete. Between the ages of 6 and 12, the roots of the baby teeth gradually degenerate, giving way to 32 permanent teeth. After entering puberty, wisdom teeth begin to develop, marking the completion of tooth development in the mouth.
What are the signs of teething in babies?
It is crucial for families to recognize the signs of teething in infants. Many potential problems and symptoms can be prevented with preventative measures. Staying in contact with and being informed by a dentist provides significant advantages for families. Teeth that are impacted in the gums and have completed their development begin to move within the gums. They gradually advance towards the oral cavity. This advancement can result in negative symptoms. The eruption of molars into the oral cavity is a challenging process because these teeth have a considerable surface area. Possible symptoms include:
- Behaviors such as crying fits and fussiness in the baby
- Sleep problems and difficulty falling asleep
- Weight loss due to loss of appetite
- Redness and swelling occurring in the gums.
- Blockage of local glands located at the point where teeth erupt, and the resulting fluid-filled blisters.
- Diarrhea and constipation
- The urge to put their hands and any hard objects they see around them into their mouths.
- Increased saliva production and resulting cough.
- Mouth irritation
- Earaches and itching
In addition, children may experience high fever due to swollen gums.
How many days does teething fever last in babies?
High fever is common in babies during teething. However, the fever should not last more than two or three days. Temperature readings of 38.5 degrees Celsius or higher (taken under the armpit) should raise concerns. Fever lasting more than three days, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as rash, vomiting, and diarrhea, may indicate an infection. In such cases, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
How many days does it take for a baby to start teething?
Teething times can vary from baby to baby. Symptoms typically begin 4 to 8 days before teething starts. Once teething begins, the tooth usually takes its place in the mouth within eight days.
What helps babies during teething?
Healthcare professionals take certain measures to alleviate the discomfort caused by the negative symptoms of teething. However, not every treatment is beneficial for every baby. Your doctor will determine the most suitable method for your baby and their needs. However, the following measures can be taken to alleviate the symptoms:
- Bonding with a baby involves giving them lots of hugs and making them feel your presence.
- Chewing toys can be given to reduce itching and pain in the teething area. However, to ensure these toys do not cause harm, toys recommended by orthodontists should be chosen.
- For babies who have completed their sixth month, massaging the gums with cold fingers may be beneficial.
- After six months, carrots and similar hard foods can be given to help soothe teething pain.
- You should not use any medication without a doctor's recommendation.
What are the causes of delayed teething in babies?
Delayed teething in babies doesn't necessarily mean there's a developmental problem or that their teeth are prone to decay. These delays are perfectly normal. Genetic and environmental factors can alter teething times. When baby teeth are delayed, the eruption of permanent teeth may also be delayed. There's no need to worry in these cases either. To ensure all these processes proceed healthily, it's essential to stay in constant communication with your pediatrician and dentist.
