According to Sister Marion Wing, paediatric nurse at The Baby Clinic in Bedfordview, the length of teething is variable, with many factors, including genetics, which play a role. “It can take quite a while for first teeth to erupt, although babies can struggle with symptoms for a number of weeks before this happens.” Some babies teethe with no pain at all.
Cape Town paediatrician Dr Karin van Niekerk says teething usually starts with the lower front teeth, with the molars being the last to appear.
Excessive drooling can cause a painful rash around baby’s mouth. Dr van Niekerk recommends preventing this by keeping the area dry and using a barrier cream. Wing takes a natural approach, advising applying soothing calendula cream around mouth and chin areas. “You can also rub baby’s gums with a clean finger and apply pressure,” she said.
“Anything cold, like a chilled teething ring or washcloth, which baby can gnaw on, can provide relief, however baby biltong is not my preferred option as it contains salt, even at a low dose, and can be a choking hazard,” said van Niekerk. “If they are really in pain, then over-the-counter pain medication can be used.”
The doctor cautioned parents not to hang anything, including teething necklaces, around their baby’s neck “as this could lead to strangulation”. From six months and older, healthy food items can be given to a baby to chew on, “such as raw fruit, vegetables or bread sticks, as long as a caregiver remains close to watch for choking”.
Van Niekerk said parents should seek medical attention if their baby has a fever above 38 degrees, or a low-grade fever which does not settle with over-the-counter medication.
Seven common signs and symptoms of teething
1. Drooling and discomfort from three months onward, including tummy cramps, earache, windiness, looser stools, unsettled behaviour such as restless nights or crying fretfully.
2. A rash around the mouth.
3. Going off their solid food and wanting more milk.
4. A mild fever of up to 38 degrees and flushed cheeks.
5. Red, swollen gums with a line of white where the tooth is emerging.
6. Grinding bottle teats between their gums, or biting mother’s nipples while feeding.
7. Gnawing on their hands and anything else they manage to get into their mouth.
Try these products to help ease baby's discomfort
3. Playgro Textured Teething Rattle
