How long does a baby experience teething pain before a tooth comes in? What can I do to comfort my infant?
By Lillian Beard, M.D.
Babies actually begin the teething process shortly after birth. The
primary or baby teeth were formed during your pregnancy. When the
actual teeth erupt depends on the baby. Heredity plays a major role. On
average, most infants experience the breaking through of their first
tooth between 5 and 7 months. Babies have periods of discomfort as
their primary teeth gradually move toward the gums' margins. Massaging
their gums will help soothe the pain. You can use your (clean) finger,
a clean cloth, refrigerator-chilled rubber teething rings, a pacifier,
or even your breast nipple. (Don't worry, they do not get confused
about the nipple's primary function for them.)
If your baby is able to sit without support, teething biscuits
are a treat and bring forward more smiles than tears when their gums
itch or hurt. However, just prior to a tooth actually erupting through
the gum, your baby's discomfort may be more intense. If gum massage
does not do the trick, one of the over-the-counter teething gels which
contain topical (surface) anesthetics may offer temporary relief.
Non-aspirin pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are also
very effective. Do not consider any concoction containing alcohol. If
your baby's fussiness and irritability seem prolonged, always check
with your pediatrician -- the culprit could be more than teething.
Lillian Beard, M.D.
Pediatrics
Lillian M. Beard, M.D, a Fellow of the American
Academy of Pediatrics, is an associate clinical
professor at the George Washington University School
of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C.
She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national
television programs, discussing issues related to children's health.
Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in Washington, D.C.
