By Dr Deepika Pai 

Mangaluru, Nov 15: Teething is referred to appearance of teeth in the mouth. When baby’s first few teeth break through their gums it can be quite uncomfortable.

Usually first teeth appear by 4-12 months of age. The first sign of teething in babies is when the baby starts to chew on their fingers, toys or any object that they can grab.

Each infant has a unique teething experience. Some babies have teeth erupted without any pain or discomfort. While others may have sore, red gums. When the teeth breakthrough some children have flushed cheek, mild fever. They may have rashes on their faces due to increased drooling of saliva.

They may become irritable, may experience poor sleep. Sometimes teething is associated with diarrhea owing to indulgence of objects to satisfy urge of chewing.

Soothing the gums by gentle massages with clean fingers or damp cloth or piece of gauze is most helpful.

Teething rings can be used, avoid using teething rings with liquid. These rings can be cooled in fridge for some time before use. Do not tie them to child’s neck, as it may pose choking hazard.

If the child is 6 months or older and has started to consume soft solid food, raw fruit and vegetable like melon, cucumber and carrot can give to chew on to soothe the sore gums.

Keep the child’s face soiled by dribble/drooling of saliva clean to avoid skin rashes.

Keep the child hydrated well and avoid use of teething gels which are medicated unless recommended by a professional.

Dr Deepika Pai is a pediatric dentist at KMC Hospital Dr B R Ambedkar Circle Mangaluru.