Teething

Teething troubles

Some babies are born with teeth, some get their first teeth (milk teeth) from about six months old, while others will have still have no teeth by the time they're one. It varies. But most children will have all their milk teeth by the time they're two-and-a-half and will begin to get their first 'second' teeth at the back when they are six years old.

Studies have shown that babies are more likely to suffer a slight rise in temperature when teeth come through the gums. And, for a number of babies, this can make them a little irritable, more inclined to wake up crying at night, more liable to drool and dribble, and needing more soothing and comfort.

Teething takes the blame for all sorts of baby complaints - from bad temper and a runny nose to rashes, crying, and extra dirty nappies. Be sure you check with your doctor or health visitor if you're concerned about your baby's behaviour, and don't just put it down to 'teething'. Teething shouldn't make babies ill.

You may find your baby's gums become red and sore, one cheek may be more flushed, and she may seem more fretful. Dribbling and gnawing is also a common complaint. Again this may not necessarily mean your baby is 'teething' but there are ways to ease your anxiety and your baby's discomfort.

Ways to help

• Cuddles - give extra comfort; whatever you need to do to help relieve the misery.
• Teething gel - ask your chemist about sugar-free teething gel or powder which can be rubbed on your baby's gums. It must not be given to babies under four months old.
• Medicine - if you feel your baby has a high fever, check with your chemist, health visitor or doctor about treatment to help lower his temperature. Always read the instructions and check to ensure the medicine is suitable for a baby of your child's age.
• Teething ring - some parents swear by teething rings that your baby can chew on. Others let their babies chomp down on their (clean) fingers, or offer dried crusts of bread or peeled carrot sticks (stay nearby in case of choking).

"I don't think my baby was bothered by her teeth coming through, but she did get a sore chin and cheeks because her dribble used to end up on it, and then she'd spread it round over her face as she sucked on her fingers... I used petroleum jelly to keep it from getting worse."

Brushing

Your child's teeth will include 20 primary teeth - ten at the top and ten at the bottom. Even if your baby has only one or two teeth, they need to be looked after properly. Make sure you brush your baby's teeth as soon as they appear, and try to get into a routine of brushing them twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime.

You should use a smear of fluoride toothpaste on a small toothbrush for your baby. Baby toothpaste may have a nicer taste, but doesn't offer as much fluoride protection. Check with your family dentist if in doubt of which toothpaste to choose.

Set a good example - your baby will learn about good teeth hygiene by watching you brush your own teeth.

Sugar and spice

Your baby's diet is also important for the growth of healthy teeth. When introducing food and drink other than milk, try to avoid sweet things as sugar causes tooth decay. When appropriate offer healthy alternatives to sweets - such as fresh fruit, raw vegetables and water. Avoid fizzy drinks, syrups and lollipops.

• Encourage savoury tastes.
• Limit sweet foods and juices to mealtimes.
• Avoid sugar-sweetened drinks at bedtime.
• Tell friends and relatives to offer healthy alternatives to sweet biscuits and sugary snacks such as raisins and non-sweetened biscuits.

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