How Can I Help My Child With Teething Pain?

All parents look forward to seeing their child’s first tiny tooth. However, the time leading up to this momentous event can be tough on kids and parents alike. When a child is teething, they can be uncomfortable and in pain. But the good news is that your pediatric dentist in Long Island knows some ways to help ease your child’s discomfort while allowing you to get a break from a teething baby. 

Is My Child Teething? 

Keep in mind, all children will react differently to teething, but there are some tell-tale signs that your child may be teething. Your baby may become fussier than normal, constantly put things in his mouth, or nibble on his fingers all the time. Excessive drooling can also mean a baby tooth is getting ready to erupt. If you’re not sure if your child is teething, you can always ask your pediatric dentist in Long Island or gently can feel around the gum line for a tiny tooth ready to make its appearance. 

3 Teething Tips 

Once you know that your baby is teething, you may be in need of some remedies to ease pain and make your baby more comfortable. Remember, finding the best way to help your child with teething can take some trial and error. 

• Ice – Cooling the gums can help reduce teething pain. However, don’t use actual ice cubes. Instead, wet a washcloth, seal it in a bag, and freeze it. Remove it after an hour and allow your child to nibble and suck on the cold washcloth. 

• Massage – Who doesn’t love a good massage? Well, this simple action can help your baby during teething, too. Use a clean finger and gently rub your baby’s gums to relieve pain. Applying light pressure can give a bit of extra relief. 
• Teething Rings – Teething rings can be either soft and rubbery or made of wood. Both can help your child during teething as they combine the power of massage and pressure into one. 

If you try these tips a few times and they don’t seem to work for your baby, call your pediatric dentist in Long Island for additional help. 

A Word of Advice

• Never put a pacifier or teething ring in the freezer. They can become too hard and hurt your baby.  
• Don’t use topical pain relievers that contain benzocaine. They’re not recommended for use in infants and children and could lead to serious health issues.

When your little one starts to sprout some teeth, it’s time to start thinking about scheduling her first appointment with your pediatric dentist in Long Island. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children see the dentist no later than six months after their first tooth, or by age one.

About The Author

Dr. Glen Ehrenman

In April this year, Dr. Glen Ehrenman received a Lifetime Diplomate status and an award from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), where he has been a diplomate since 1995. Since 2010, he has been a clinical assistant professor and mentor at the State University of New York Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. He has memberships with dental organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, New York State Dental Association, and the Nassau County Dental Society. His commitment to excellence earned him the Top DDS of 2012 award from Long Island Pulse Magazine.

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