How to Tell if Your Baby is Teething: Symptoms, Signs, and Tips

Introduction

Teething is a process that all babies go through as their first set of teeth start to come in. It can be a difficult time for both parents and babies alike, but it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of teething so you can help your baby through it. In this article, we’ll explore the common signs and symptoms of teething, and provide some tips on how to help comfort your baby during this time.

Observe for Drooling

Excessive drooling is often one of the first signs of teething. This is because when a baby’s teeth start to come in, they produce more saliva than usual. The extra saliva then drips from the mouth and can lead to increased drooling. Look for wet patches on your baby’s clothes or bibs that weren’t there before, or try feeling the area around your baby’s chin or neck for excess moisture.

Watch for Chewing

Chewing on fingers, toys, and other objects is another sign that your baby may be teething. Babies do this because chewing helps relieve the pressure on their gums. Try to look out for any unusual chewing behavior, such as your baby gnawing on their hands or toys more than usual. If you notice this happening, it could be a sign that your baby’s teeth are coming in.

Look for Swelling and Redness

Another sign of teething is swelling and redness in the area around the teeth. As the teeth push through the gums, they can cause inflammation in the area, leading to swelling and redness. Take a look at your baby’s gums to see if you can spot any redness or swelling. If you do, then it could be a sign that your baby is teething.

Check for Biting

Biting down on anything is also a sign that your baby may be teething. When babies are teething, they may bite down on anything they can get their hands on, including their own fingers, toys, or other objects. Watch out for this behavior and try to identify what your baby is biting on. If you notice your baby biting down on anything, it could be a sign of teething.

Monitor Your Baby’s Mood

Finally, keep an eye on your baby’s mood. Teething can be painful and uncomfortable for babies, which can lead to them becoming fussier than usual and having trouble sleeping. If you notice that your baby is fussier than usual and having trouble sleeping, it could be a sign that they’re teething. Try to comfort them with cuddles and soft words.

Conclusion

In conclusion, teething can be a difficult time for both parents and babies. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of teething so you can help your baby through it. Look out for excessive drooling, chewing, swelling and redness in the area around the teeth, biting down on anything, and changes in your baby’s mood. With these tips, you should be able to tell if your baby is teething and help them feel better.