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Teething - signs and tips on how to help

Teething can be awful, for both children and their carers. Some children sail through without barely noticing that their teeth are on the way. Whilst others become inconsolable. On some occasions babies are born with a tooth on show and for other none are actually seen popping up til nearly a year old - every child is different.

The main signs of teething to look out for can be:

* A red flushed cheek - it can often be just one side

* An increase in temperature

* Anything and everything is put into the mouth (including tiny fists)

* If you are nursing your child, you may notice an increase in biting occurences!

* Nappy rash

* If your child has reflux, symptoms are often increased

Our own experiences in our family, I could tick every one of the above.

Teeth can bob around under the surface of the gum for quite some time - so you may see the signs before you see a sparkly new tooth appearing.

It is thought that a specific acid is formed to break down the gum surface to allow the tooth to pop up. This is why nappy rash can be an associated issue, as it is the body's way of taking the excess acid away.

If your child has acid reflux, their symptoms can often be magnified during this time.

Often in our house teething always seemed much worse at bedtime; which we put down to the fact that as it was 'quiet time', there were less distractions and so the pain was more noticeable.

There are so many different ways you can try and provide relief - you don't have to use them all, what works for some children, doesn't work for others:

* Silicone teethers (some can be put in the fridge for extra coolness)

* Silicone jewellery for Mum's to wear

* Teething granules (available from pharmacies and supermarkets etc)

* Homeopathic remedies - we used chamomilla from our homeopath, but you can research this online

* Try vegetable sticks (for older babies) - some can be frozen for extra coldness - carrots are really good

* Frozen flannels

* Make your own teething biscuits (I will add a recipe to the blog of one we used ourselves)

* Paracetamol suspension or similar approriate to your child's age

* Teething gels

* Children's teething necklaces or anklets (worn under supervision) - specifically made from Baltic amber and hazelwood - hazelwood in particular is thought to neutralise and mop up the excess acid present with teething (and reflux) - it worked a treat for us and got me designing and creating my own jewellery. It goes without saying that this is purely my own opinion; but I appreciate that everyone is different and will make their own decision.

As a general guide - please remember everyone is different; but if you are concerned at all, certainly get some advice from your Health Visitor etc;

  • bottom front teeth (incisors) – the first to come through, at around five to seven months

  • top front teeth (incisors) – at around six to eight months

  • top lateral incisors (either side of the top front teeth) – at around nine to 11 months

  • bottom lateral incisors (either side of the bottom front teeth) – at around 10-12 months

  • molars (back teeth) – at around 12-16 months

  • canines (towards the back of the mouth) – at around 16-20 months

  • second molars – at around 20-30 months

Thanks for reading my post on teething - here's to many more!

A bit about us:

Laura, husband and 3 small people living by the sea

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