As a parent, you're responsible for your child's health, from head to toe. Even your baby's beautiful smile requires your attention—starting with teething. This can be an uncomfortable experience for your little one, but you can use these dental care steps keep them healthy and happy.

Do:

Know the signs.

Symptoms of teething include fussiness, irritability, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, and increased drooling. Recognizing these telltale indicators allows you to pinpoint teething and rule out other causes.

Fever, rash, and diarrhea are not normal side effects of teething and indicate a different issue. 

Stock up on teething tools.

Get a couple of teethers for your child to chew on. Avoid liquid-filled objects, which might break, and teething jewelry like bracelets and rings that pose a choking hazard. Only use dental care products that are marketed as teethers and made of solid rubber. Get at least two so you have a backup when one needs cleaning.

Don’t:

Be afraid to get hands-on.

Massaging your baby's gums can be soothing when their teeth are first erupting. Use a clean finger or a moist gauze pad.

Putting a small spoon in the fridge, then using that to cool the gums can also have a calming effect. 

Use medications.

Steer clear of benzocaine products and numbing gels, which aren't approved by the FDA for kids under age two. Their use can result in a condition known as methemoglobinemia, which leads to nausea, poor muscle coordination, headache, and dizziness. It can even result in heart arrhythmia and seizures.

As soon as your child has their first teeth, bring them to Pediatric Dental Group for their first dental exam. These children’s dentists have served families in the Honolulu, HI, community since 1966. Visit their website to review their list of practice areas. For a dental care appointment, call (808) 593-8828.