Your Child's Teething

Yesterday my wife asked me,"a friend of mine, her child is having a problem with growing a new tooth.  Both of them could not sleep well. Is there anything that she can do to help her baby?"

Since this is one of the most common dental questions, I think it is best for me to write down my recommendation in this blog, so that the information can be shared to all mothers when needed.

Teething is the process by which a baby tooth erupts (or cuts through) the gum.  It usually occurs between 6 to 24 months of ages.  As the tooth is coming from beneath the surface of the gum, the area may appear slightly red or swollen.  Sometimes a fluid-filled blister similar to a bruise may be seen over the erupting tooth.  The surrounding teeth may also feel more tender.

Common signs and symptoms of teeth include irritability, tender and swollen gum, increased drooling, restless, not sleeping well, refusal of food, and sucking fingers (perhaps.. because he or she is trying to reduce the discomfort in the mouth).

What can you do to help your child?

First, you need to make sure that your child does not have a flu or bacterial infection (like ear infection).  Normally with teething, your child's symptoms should not have fever, cough, and diarrhea.  If your child have any of the "cold" symptoms, it is best to take your child to see the doctor right away.

Second, you can use:

1. Oral over-the-counter pain relievers like children Tylenol or Motrin
2. Topical lidocaine gel (Note that topical medication containing bezocaine may have severe side effect and should not be used to treat teething problem)

Finally, your child's teething problem should be naturally resolved within a few days.  If the problem continues for more than one week, or if the problem is getting worse, then your child may need to be evaluated by your dentist.   Often a quick surgical procedure can be performed in the dental office to assist with the tooth eruption.

Houston dentist
Minh Nguyen, D.D.S.