Access Dental and Dentures loves taking care of people's dental needs at every age! One of the most important stages of dental health and development is when a baby is teething. Teething can be a frustrating and painful process... For both the baby and the parents! If you are looking for ways to help promote healthy development for your baby's teeth, look no further. As the best dental clinic in southern Missouri, we have the answers to help!
Massage
Gum Massage
When your baby is experiencing a lot of pain from teeth trying to break through their gums, very gentle massage of their gums can help. Thoroughly clean your hands, then use your finger to rub their gums in a circular motion. The pressure counteracts the outward pressure from their teeth and can help alleviate pain.
Foot Massage
Surprisingly enough, there may be pressure points in the feet that connect to the jaw and teeth. Gently massaging your baby's feet, especially their toes, could help their gums feel better. Even if there isn't a direct connection between your baby's feet and teeth, there are huge relaxation and soothing benefits that come from foot massage.
Use Cold
When a baby's gums are in pain from teeth trying to break through, applying something cold can help numb the pain and sooth the inflammation.
Washcloth
Run a clean washcloth in cold water, wring out the excess water, and apply the washcloth to the baby's teeth. You can give them the cold washcloth to chew on or use it to try massaging their teeth as well. Just make sure the washcloth doesn't present a choking hazard.
Refrigerated Pacifier & Teething Toys
Chewing on a pacifier or teething toy can have great benefits to your baby when they are teething. Adding the cold element makes it even more soothing for your little one. Try putting them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. Note: Don't leave them in the freezer too long. Fully frozen temperatures can be harmful to your baby's soft gums.
Chilled Fruits
Once your baby has moved from milk to solid foods, you can mash up fruit and chill it for a soothing, tasty treat! Bananas, strawberries, peaches, and pears are great fruits to start with. Note: Any time your baby is trying something for the first time, be sure to monitor them for an allergic reaction.
Milk Popsicle
If your baby is refusing to nurse or eat because the pain is bothering them so much, then making a milk popsicle could be the perfect solution. Your baby will enjoy the cool sensation and will be more likely to accept the treat. The milk popsicle can continue to give them the nutrients and hydration they need.
The Last Resort
If your baby is still in an incredible amount of pain, then it may be time for medication. Always ask your pediatrician before given your little one any kind of medicine. Don't use numbing gels designed for teething. Even though they may claim to be safe and effective, they can make it hard for your baby to swallow due to the numbing agent. This could go from bad to worse very quickly.
Depend on Your Expert Dentist!
Once your baby's first tooth comes through their gums, you should schedule an appointment with your local Missouri dentist within six months. At Access Dental and Dentures, we love taking care of kids and making their experience at the dentist feel safe and fun. Give us a call to schedule your next appointment and learn more about pediatric dentistry! 1-877-DENTIST
We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile!
1-877-DENTIST
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