Teething - What You Should Know

Teething is a common challenge for parents with small children. Just when should a parent worry, and should it be blamed for long sleepless nights? Below are some guidelines:

• Teething causes some discomfort of the gums, can often be accompanied by swelling in one or two locations, and can cause kids to be sensitive or clingy. It does not generally cause high fevers (>101), long sleepless nights, diarrhea, poor feeding or lowered resistance to other illnesses.
• Children who are teething do often have diarrhea, but the cause is not the teething. It is more likely the fact that everything is being put in the mouth in an effort to chew and soothe sore gums.
• A dose of acetaminophen goes a long way in soothing teething, and lasts longer than teething gels which can numb gag reflexes and may not be safe in small infants. Homeopathic teething tabs may also be helpful when used as directed. If the infant is 6 months of age or older ibuprofen can help more since it has some anti-inflammatory properties. (See dosage chart)
• If your child is crying all night despite a dose of pain reliever, is inconsolable, is not eating or drinking, or has swollen gums throughout the whole mouth you should seek medical attention.

If this information did not help you with questions about your child's teething, please call the office and discuss it with them.