As you probably know by now, babies can be a handful in general. But when they
reach the age when they start to “teethe,” be prepared for an extended period of crying, discomfort, and irritability. Review these frequently asked questions about teething and be sure to take your baby to see our pediatric dentist Dr. Jennifer Chon at Upper East Smiles on the Upper East Side of New York, NY.
Why and When Do Babies Experience Teething?
Teething is a natural part of the development process for recently born babies. The 20 primary teeth they are born with are beginning to erupt from beneath the gum line, causing pain and general discomfort. The teething process usually begins around six months old, but can happen up to age one. Usually, all 20 teeth will be completely erupted by the time the baby is a toddler.
How Do You Relieve Symptoms of Teething?
One way to help your baby get through the teething process is to give him or her something to chew on (a teether) throughout the day. Gently rubbing the gumline with moistened gauze or a clean finger can provide relief. A bit of dentist-approved anesthetic gel may also help. Around this age, babies are at risk of a problem called baby bottle decay, which is why it’s important to keep the mouth clean and see your Upper East Side New York, NY pediatric dentist for regular visits.
When Is a Baby’s First Dental Visit?
It is recommended that you visit the dentist soon after a child’s first teeth begin to erupt—generally before age one. Your dentist will clean the gums and check the teeth that have already come up. If your baby’s teething discomfort seems out of the ordinary, you should see your pediatric dentist for a visit.
See Your Pediatric Dentist
If your baby is teething or has recently experienced newly erupted teeth, make an appointment to see our pediatric dentist soon. Call (646) 864-1808 today to schedule time with pediatric dentist Dr. Jennifer Chon at Upper East Smiles on the Upper East Side of New York, NY.