Teething

About The Condition: Teething in Infants

Teething is a natural process in which an infant’s teeth begin to emerge through the gums. It usually starts around 6 months of age but can begin earlier or later. During teething, the gums may become red, swollen, and tender, leading to discomfort for the baby. This process can be distressing for both the infant and the parents, as it often disrupts sleep and feeding routines.

Teething is a normal part of a child’s development, and while it can be uncomfortable, it is not usually a cause for concern. However, some babies may experience more severe symptoms, such as fever or diarrhoea, which may require medical attention.

Over the counter teething medicine for infants is specially formulated to provide relief from teething discomfort, helping both babies and parents through this challenging stage of development.

Symptoms of Teething

Teething can cause a variety of symptoms in infants, including:

● Irritability: Babies may become more fussy or cranky than usual.
● Drooling: Increased saliva production is common during teething.
● Gum Swelling: The gums may appear red, swollen, and sensitive.
● Chewing: Babies may chew on objects to relieve gum discomfort.
● Sleep Disturbances: Teething can disrupt sleep patterns.
● Loss of Appetite: Some babies may eat less due to soreness in the mouth.

Over-the-counter teething medicine can help alleviate these symptoms by numbing the gums and providing temporary relief from discomfort. It can also reduce inflammation and help soothe the baby.

Diagnosis

Teething is usually diagnosed based on the symptoms the infant is experiencing. Since teething is a natural process, it does not typically require a formal diagnosis by a healthcare provider. Parents and caregivers can usually recognize the signs of teething based on the baby’s behaviour and the appearance of their gums.

However, if there are concerns about the baby’s symptoms or if they are experiencing additional symptoms such as fever or diarrhoea, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can rule out other potential causes of the symptoms and provide guidance on how to manage teething discomfort.

Treatment Options

Teething can be managed with various methods, including over-the-counter teething medicine. Here are some highlighted products that can help alleviate teething pain:

● Dentinox Teething Gel 10g: Contains Lidocaine and Cetylpyridinium for effective teething pain relief.
● Calgel Teething Gel 10g: Can be used from 5 months onwards and provides quick relief from teething pain.
● Anbesol Teething Gel – 10g: Offers soothing relief from teething pain, mouth ulcers, and denture irritation. Suitable for both babies and adults, and it’s sugar-free.
● Calprofen Ibuprofen Suspension – 100ml: Provides relief from fever, aches, and pains for up to 8 hours. Contains ibuprofen, suitable for infants.

These products can help soothe your baby’s teething discomfort, but it’s essential to use them according to the manufacturer’s instructions and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Tips for Preventing Teething Discomfort

While teething is a natural process, there are steps you can take to help alleviate your baby’s discomfort and prevent any additional issues:

● Gentle Gum Massage: Rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a damp gauze pad can help soothe sore gums.
● Toys: Give your baby safe teething toys to chew on to help alleviate discomfort and promote healthy tooth eruption.
● Cold Objects: Chilled teething rings or a clean, cold washcloth can provide relief by numbing the gums.
● Avoid Certain Foods: Stay away from hard foods that could potentially irritate sore gums.

By following these tips, you can help make the teething process more comfortable for your baby.

Related Reading

Our blog features articles related to teething and infant oral health. We aim to provide valuable information to help parents and caregivers make informed decisions about their baby’s health.