When your baby’s first tooth shows up, you might be taken by surprise. Every baby experiences teething differently: some have virtually no symptoms, while others experience 
teething pain for months. Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months old, but some will erupt as early as 3 months old, and some as late as their first birthday. The most common first teeth to erupt are called central incisors. The two in the bottom center of the mouth usually erupt first followed by the two in the top center. The total number of teeth a baby will have is 20.
Common Signs that your baby is teething
Symptoms can last for days, right around the time a new tooth is emerging, or for as long as several months if a lot of teeth come in all at once.
• Drooling
• Swollen bulging gums
• Irritability, fussy, crying
• Trouble sleeping
• Trying to bite and chew, and suck on everything
• A tooth visible below the gum
• Rubbing the face
• May have a fever
One thing a parent can do to help their baby thru this teething process: provide safe, clean objects for your baby to chew on, such as teething rings or wet wash cloth. Sucking chilly foods may offer some relief. Do not use topical numbing agents. Check with your pediatrician for more information before giving your baby any over the counter medicines for teething discomfort. I hope this Tooth Talk has helped to explain the signs and symptoms of what teething is.
If you have questions call or email me at Integrity Dental Care, PLLC (615) 445-8700 or email dr.jmitchell@integritydentalcares.com with any questions you may have.
