Teething usually begins as early as three months of age and can cause your baby a great deal of discomfort, with symptoms including drooling and crankiness. If your little one is crying all night due to the arrival of their first teeth, the children’s dentists at Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage have some ideas for you.

Here are four tips for soothing your baby’s gums during teething:

• Apply Cold: Soothe swollen gums by cooling them. Put a wet washcloth in a clean plastic bag and chill it in the refrigerator; your baby will enjoy chewing on the washcloth after you’ve removed it from the plastic. You can also cool a spoon or teething ring. Just make sure the items aren’t frozen before giving them to your little one.
• Put on Pressure: Applying pressure to your baby’s gums distracts their brain from the sensation of pain. Rub the gums with a clean finger or a moistened gauze pad. Hard, unsweetened teething crackers can also help. Supervise closely, however, to avoid choking hazards.
• Dry Extra Drool: Drooling is a normal part of the teething process, but excess drool can stick to the skin around your baby’s mouth and cause skin irritation. Keep a clean cloth on hand to occasionally dry your child’s chin. If necessary, you can also apply a water-based moisturizer.
• Try Medications: If solutions like cold and pressure aren’t working, you can look to over-the-counter remedies like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Avoid homeopathic remedies, like teething gels or tablets, as they may cause children harm. In any case, check with a children’s dentist or pediatrician before you administer any medication.

If you’re in need of a trustworthy children’s dentist in Anchorage, look to Alaska Dentistry for Kids. From general teeth cleanings to fillings, these dental professionals offer an array of services for young patients. Visit their website to find out more about their services, or call (907) 274-2525 to schedule an appointment.