New Teeth? A Guide for Parents
Welcoming a new tooth is a significant milestone in your baby’s development, but the journey through teething can be challenging for both infants and parents. Especially true for first time parents, you might find yourself constantly wondering whether all of this whinging is due to new teeth, and what you should be doing to help your baby.
As your baby grows and you learn their signals, you’ll soon understand when they are teething and what best helps them through these tricky moments with an infant.
When to Expect New Teeth:
Teething typically begins around six months of age, but it can vary. Some babies might start teething as early as four months, while others might not experience it until they’re a bit older. The order in which teeth emerge can also differ, but it commonly begins with the bottom front teeth, followed by the top front teeth.
Just to make things even more complicated, new teeth are always moving under the gum line! Your child might be teething with absolutely no signs of the teeth themselves! Kids certainly keep us on our toes!!
Signs of Teething:
- Drooling: Excessive drooling is a classic sign of teething. While it can be messy, it’s the body’s natural way of helping soothe irritated gums and welcoming new teeth.
- Irritability: Teething can make babies more irritable due to the discomfort and pain associated with emerging teeth.
- Chewing and Biting: Babies may instinctively chew on toys, fingers, or anything within reach to alleviate the pressure on their gums.
- Gum Swelling and Sensitivity: Swollen and sensitive gums are common signs that a new teeth are about to break through.
- Changes in Sleeping Patterns: Discomfort can affect sleep patterns, leading to more restless nights during the teething process.
Relieving Teething Pain:
- Beechwood Teethers: Natural beechwood teethers provide a safe and satisfying chewing experience. The hardness of beechwood is ideal for soothing gums, and its smooth texture minimises discomfort.
- Chilled Teething Toys: Refrigerate teething toys to provide a cooling effect on sore gums. Ensure they are clean and free from small parts that could be a choking hazard.
- Gentle Gum Massage: Use a clean finger or a soft, wet cloth to massage your baby’s gums gently. The pressure can help alleviate some of the discomfort.
- Teething Rings: Cold teething rings or silicone-based teething toys can offer relief. Make sure they are free from harmful substances and suitable for your baby’s age.
- Distraction: Engage your baby with soft, age-appropriate toys or activities to redirect their focus from teething discomfort.
How Long Does Teething Take?
Teething is a gradual process, and the duration can vary from one child to another. On average, it takes about two to three years for a full set of primary teeth to come in. However, the intensity of teething symptoms may peak around the time a new tooth is about to emerge.
Drooling: A Sign of Teething?
Yes, drooling is a common indicator of teething. Increased saliva production helps soothe irritated gums. Keep a supply of soft, absorbent bibs on hand to manage the drool and keep your baby comfortable.
Teething rash can be an issue for some babies, flaring eczema, so we use bamboo muslin cloths to help wipe away any dampness, and always have a spare change of clothes and a bib for extra drooly days.
What Was That About Beechwood for New Teeth?
Beechwood is often favoured for teething products due to several beneficial characteristics that make it a suitable and safe material for babies:
- Hardness and Durability: Beechwood is a hardwood known for its firmness and durability. These qualities provide a satisfying chewing experience for teething babies, as they can gnaw on the wood to soothe their sore gums without the risk of easily breaking or splintering the material.
- Smooth Texture: Beechwood typically has a smooth surface, making it gentle on a baby’s delicate gums. The lack of rough edges reduces the likelihood of irritation or discomfort during teething.
- Natural and Non-Toxic: Beechwood is a natural material, and when used in teething products, it is often untreated or finished with non-toxic substances. This ensures that no harmful chemicals or additives come into contact with the baby during the teething process.
- Antibacterial Properties: Beechwood inherently possesses antibacterial properties, which can be advantageous for teething products. This feature helps maintain a hygienic surface, minimising the risk of bacterial growth as the baby explores and chews on the item.
- Sustainability: Beechwood is sourced from beech trees, which are abundant and sustainable. Opting for teething products made from beechwood aligns with environmentally conscious choices.
- Appealing Aesthetics: Beechwood has a light colour and a pleasing grain pattern, making teething products crafted from this material visually appealing. The attractive design can engage the baby’s attention, turning the teething experience into a sensory exploration.
When choosing beechwood teething products, it’s essential to ensure that they meet safety standards and regulations. Always check for any finishes or coatings used on the wood to guarantee they are non-toxic and safe for babies. Our Beechwood Bee Teethers help babies with their teething journey and you can ensure they are a safe and sustainable choice for your child.
The teething journey is a significant phase in your baby’s development, marked by both triumphs and challenges. While natural remedies like beechwood teethers and chilled toys can provide comfort, it is paramount to emphasise the importance of vigilant supervision during their use. As parents, our primary goal is to ensure our little ones explore the world of teething safely. By understanding the signs of new teeth on their way, and employing soothing techniques responsibly, we can make this period more manageable for both parents and babies. Cherish these moments, be attentive to your baby’s needs, and, most importantly, relish in the resilience and growth your little one demonstrates throughout their teething adventure. Remember, a watchful eye ensures that the journey towards those first teeth is not just developmental but safe and joyous as well.
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