As a new parent in San Antonio, hearing your baby cry can be distressing, especially when you’re unsure of the cause. One common culprit is teething, which typically begins between 6 and 12 months of age. However, crying can also signal other issues that may require medical attention. At Kids World Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Torres, our expert pediatric dentist, understands the challenges parents face and is here to help you navigate your baby’s oral health. In this blog, we’ll explore how to identify teething pain, offer remedies to soothe your baby, and highlight signs that suggest a visit to a physician rather than a dentist.
How to Identify Teething Pain
Teething occurs when your baby’s first teeth begin to emerge through the gums, often causing discomfort. Here are key signs to look for to determine if your baby’s crying is due to teething:
Excessive Drooling: Teething stimulates saliva production, leading to more drooling than usual. You may notice your baby’s chin or clothes are frequently wet.
Chewing or Biting: Babies often chew on their hands, toys, or other objects to relieve pressure on their gums.
Swollen or Red Gums: The gums may appear red, puffy, or slightly swollen where a tooth is emerging. You might even see the tip of a tooth breaking through.
Irritability or Fussiness: Teething can make babies cranky or restless, especially at night, due to discomfort.
Mild Temperature Increase: Some babies experience a slight elevation in temperature (not a fever) during teething.
Changes in Eating or Sleeping: Discomfort may cause your baby to eat less or have trouble sleeping.
These symptoms typically last a few days to a week as each tooth emerges. If you notice these signs, teething is likely the cause of your baby’s discomfort.
Remedies for Teething Pain
Fortunately, there are several safe and effective ways to soothe your baby’s teething pain. Always consult your pediatrician or pediatric dentist before trying new remedies, especially for infants under 6 months. Here are some options:
Chilled Teething Rings: Offer a clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring for your baby to chew on. The cool temperature helps numb the gums and reduce inflammation. Ensure the ring is BPA-free and designed for teething.
Cold Washcloth: Wet a clean washcloth, chill it in the refrigerator, and let your baby chew on it. The texture and coldness can provide relief.
Gum Massage: Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger to ease discomfort. Wash your hands thoroughly before doing this.
Over-the-Counter Medications: For babies over 6 months, consider using infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) to reduce pain and inflammation. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your pediatrician or on the packaging, and never give aspirin to a baby due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
Teething Gels: Over-the-counter teething gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine are not recommended for infants, as they can pose risks. Instead, ask Dr. Torres for safe alternatives during your visit to Kids World Pediatric Dentistry.
Comfort and Distraction: Extra cuddles, soothing music, or a favorite toy can help distract your baby from teething discomfort.
Always supervise your baby during teething activities and avoid using items that could break or pose a choking hazard, such as frozen foods or small objects.
When to See a Physician Instead of a Pediatric Dentist
While teething is a common cause of crying, other conditions can mimic teething symptoms and require medical attention. If your baby exhibits any of the following signs, contact your pediatrician promptly:
High Fever: A temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) in infants under 3 months or above 102°F (39°C) in older babies is not typical for teething and may indicate an infection.
Persistent Diarrhea or Vomiting: These symptoms are not associated with teething and could signal a gastrointestinal issue.
Severe Irritability or Lethargy: If your baby seems unusually fussy, unresponsive, or difficult to console for an extended period, it may point to an underlying illness.
Ear Pulling with Other Symptoms: While babies may tug at their ears during teething, this can also indicate an ear infection, especially if accompanied by fever or discharge.
Rash or Other Symptoms: A rash (beyond mild drool-related irritation), coughing, or breathing difficulties suggest a medical issue that needs evaluation.
Refusal to Eat or Drink: If your baby consistently refuses food or liquids for more than a day, it could indicate a problem beyond teething.
If you’re unsure whether your baby’s symptoms are due to teething or another issue, err on the side of caution and consult your pediatrician. For teething-related concerns or questions about your baby’s oral health, Dr. Torres at Kids World Pediatric Dentistry is ready to assist.
Why Choose Kids World Pediatric Dentistry?
At Kids World Pediatric Dentistry in San Antonio, Dr. Torres specializes in creating a warm, welcoming environment for young patients and their families. We understand that teething and early dental care can be overwhelming for new parents, which is why we’re dedicated to providing expert guidance and compassionate care. Regular dental visits starting around your child’s first birthday can help monitor teething progress, ensure proper oral development, and address any concerns early.
Book an Appointment with Dr. Torres Today
If your baby is experiencing teething pain or you’re concerned about their oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kids World Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Torres and our friendly team are here to support new parents with personalized care and expert advice. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your baby’s teething symptoms, learn about proper oral care, or establish a dental home for your child. Contact Kids World Pediatric Dentistry in San Antonio and let us help your little one smile bright!
