TEETHING

General Information

DEFINITION--Sequential appearance of baby teeth and adult teeth. New teeth erupt continually from age 6 months to 3 years. Between ages 6 and 12, children lose baby teeth, which are replaced with adult teeth. On average, the first set of teeth is complete soon after the second birthday.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Mouth; teeth.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Both sexes of children from ages 6 months to 3 years and 6 to 12 years.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Excess saliva production, drooling and chewing on anything the baby can hold.
• Pain. (This symptom cannot be proven, but probably does occur.)
• Gums may become red or swollen.
• Irritability.
• Fretfulness; clinging.
• Difficulty in sleeping.
• Crying more than usual.
• Teething should not be considered the only reason of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, prolonged loss of appetite, earache, convulsions, cough or diaper rash. These are possible symptoms of an illness. Consult your doctor.

CAUSES--Normal physiological development.

RISK INCREASES WITH--Teething problems are not related to any known risk factor.

HOW TO PREVENT--Teething problems cannot be prevented, but symptoms can be relieved.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES----Your own observation of teething symptoms.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Home care for teething discomfort.
• Doctor or dentist's treatment (complications only).

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• If not cared for properly, baby teeth may decay and need filling.
• Teething may be misdiagnosed as a fever-causing illness.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Teething discomfort can be partially relieved.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• The sequence of normal tooth eruption in children is: First teeth (lower front teeth) at about 6 months, sooner in girls than boys. First adult teeth at about age 6. Bicuspids (side teeth) between ages 10 and 12. Permanent molars at about age 12.
• Home-care: Rub the child's gums with your finger; this is very comforting. Freeze a coarse washcloth and allow the child to chew it. Offer the child a teething biscuit or teething ring (you may chill it). Keep the child amused or occupied. Clean new teeth and gums with a cotton swab and water or use your finger with a soft washcloth wrapped around it. Wait until the child is 2 or 3 years old before brushing teeth regularly. By this age, children want to imitate parents by brushing teeth.
• Begin regular dental visits at age 2 or 3.
• At age 5, explain to the child that losing baby teeth is normal. This prevents the child from becoming concerned when tooth loss begins.

MEDICATION--Medicine usually is not necessary for teething discomfort. Acetaminophen in proper dosages, or a cream or ointment rubbed on the gums to ease discomfort may be recommended by your doctor.

ACTIVITY--No restrictions.

DIET--No special diet. Chewing on teething biscuits or zwieback toast may help some infants.

Call Your Doctor If

• The child's temperature rises above normal.
• Signs of infection, such as pain, pus, excessive swelling or very red gums, occur at the site of the erupting tooth.