Family Dentist in Green Lake Has the Top Home Remedies for Teething

Between the ages of 4 to 6 months, your child will reach an important milestone in their development. Their first tooth will erupt. In the meantime, it will mean many sleepless nights and fussy days from teething. Your baby’s sore gums can lead to drooling, crankiness, and tears. You can help ease your baby’s discomfort using a few simple home remedies from your family dentist in Green Lake.

Is My Baby Teething?

Although times vary considerably, most babies have their first two bottom front teeth erupt around the age of 6 months. They are followed by their upper two front teeth. As the teeth work their way through the gum tissue, it can cause a variety of symptoms, such as:

• Drooling
• Chewing on objects
• Irritability and crankiness
• Sore or tender gums
• Low-grade fever

Simple Home Remedies

You can help ease your baby’s discomfort using simple home remedies.

• Massage the Gums: Gentle pressure can help with your baby’s pain. Moisten a gauze pad or use your clean finger to carefully rub their gums.
• Apply Cold: A cold washcloth, spoon, or teething ring is an effective way to soothe swollen, painful gums.
• Try Gnawing: Gnawing helps babies self-soothe while also managing their pain. Use a peeled carrot or cucumber but keep a close eye on them to ensure no pieces break off that they might choke on.
• Over-the-Counter Remedies: If your baby’s discomfort is severe or their fever worsens, use an over-the-counter pain reliever.
• Chew on a Toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush will massage the gums while also getting your baby into the habit of an oral hygiene routine.
• DIY Popsicles: Make popsicles from pureed fruit and yogurt. This gives your baby a safe way to temporarily numb their gums but supervise them closely.
• Use Lotion: Excessive drooling can quickly lead to irritated and chapped skin on their face. Apply lotion that is water-based to help soothe their skin.
• Caring for Baby Teeth

As soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts, it is time to introduce a toothbrush into their daily routine. Choose one that is supported by the American Dental Association and accommodates the size of their mouth to clean all surfaces of their new teeth twice a day. Do not forget to schedule a preventive appointment with their dentist in Green Lake before their first birthday.

Encourage a Healthy Smile

You can give your child the foundation they need for a healthy smile before their first teeth erupt. As you help them through the teething phase, do not forget to promote their oral hygiene to encourage a healthy smile for a lifetime.