Taking Care of Teething Troubles

Teething can start as early as 3 months or, in some cases, as late as 12 months. By their 3rd birthday, an average child will have twenty milk teeth.

“Oral healthcare is as important as general healthcare. It’s very important that parents pay attention to their children's oral health and begin taking care of their children's teeth early, during infancy,” says Dr Meenakshi Kher, a paediatric dentist at Happy Tooth Clinic.

Tips for Easier Teething

• Give your child some chilled teething rings that have been refrigerated (make sure they are not frozen, just chilled) so that they can chew on it. Teething rings are designed with textures that massage a baby's tender gums.

Rubber teething rings are equally good but you must avoid choosing the ones carrying liquid inside them because they may get torn. Also, make sure that teething rings are not too small in case the child tries to swallow it.

• Since the baby drools a lot during this phase you must try to keep their face clean by gently wiping off drool from time to time with a clean towel. Due to constant dribbling children develop rashes on their chin. Regular application of zinc cream may help clear this up.

• As soon as a teeth appear parents should start cleaning the teeth either with wet, clean cloth or with a brush. Babies should not be given toothpaste during this process.

• Applying soothing teething gel into the affected area with your finger a few times a day will do the trick.

• Gently rubbing your finger at babies gum can provide relief.

Last, but not the least, cuddle your baby fondly and provide them extra comfort.