Dr. Timon's Pediatric Dental Blog

You've probably received a ton of congratulations on the birth of your son or daughter, and even though your child may have been born awhile ago let me add my congratulations to the list.

By now, your child is probably teething and may be having a hard time of it. So, I thought that you might like to know a few of the "secrets" I've found to help your child through this difficult time (as well as help mommy and daddy get a decent night's sleep).

When your child starts acting irritably and drooling, carefully look and feel around the gums. If you feel a tooth starting to push through the gums that may be the source of the discomfort. Here's a few tips that will help"

• Wipe your baby's face often to remove the drool. This will help prevent rashes from developing.
• Give your baby something hard to chew on. Make sure it's big enough that they can't swallow it.
• A damp, clean washcloth placed in the freezer for 30 minutes makes a handy teething aid.
• Teething rings are also good, but avoid the ones with liquid inside. If they break the liquid may not be safe. Also, never tie a teething ring around baby's neck.
• Rub baby's gums gently with your finger.
• Give baby Tylenol drops.

• If your baby develops a fever during the teething process it is due to something else. Call your baby's doctor if the fever is over 101 or 102 degrees.

I hope this helps but if it doesn't, feel free to give my office a call and we'll try to help you as much as we can over the phone.

By the way, did you know that your baby should have their first dental exam between six months and baby's first birthday.