Dental Information » Signs and Symptoms of Teething
Signs and Symptoms of Teething
Q: My daughter has a runny nose. Is this a sign of teething? What are the usual symptoms of teething?
A: A runny nose is not commonly associated with teething. The runny nose is more likely caused by a cold, allergy, or some other condition. If this is a constant occurrence, you should have a pediatrician examine your daughter.
Common signs of teething include discomfort, restlessness, irritability, loss of appetite, and waking during the night. Chewing on toys and fingers is very common. Production of saliva may increase causing excessive drooling and coughing as the baby tries to clear his/her throat. Drooling may cause a rash on the baby's face, neck, and chest area. It is helpful to keep these areas dry by using bibs and changing wet clothes often.
Local signs of teething may include sore, tender, swollen gum tissue near the area of tooth eruption. Sometimes, the gum tissue may appear blue or purple instead of the usual pink color. This condition is not a problem and usually resolves after the teeth erupt. Teething symptoms may be most pronounced when the first teeth erupt. Sometimes the wide back teeth (i.e. molars) cause the most discomfort.
Local signs of teething may include sore, tender, swollen gum tissue near the area of tooth eruption. Sometimes, the gum tissue may appear blue or purple instead of the usual pink color. This condition is not a problem and usually resolves after the teeth erupt. Teething symptoms may be most pronounced when the first teeth erupt. Sometimes the wide back teeth (i.e. molars) cause the most discomfort.There are ways to relieve the discomfort of teething. Simple distractions, such as changing the scenery, rocking, or cuddling, may provide comfort. Teething rings, especially cold ones, can be extremely helpful. Once the teeth have erupted, avoid using the fluid-filled teething rings as the new teeth can puncture them. I used to recommend letting babies chew on frozen bananas or Popsicle's; however, I have stopped recommending this form of relief because the pieces could become choking hazards. Try using a clean, frozen wash cloth instead. If drooling is excessive, be sure to give your daughter plenty of water and diluted juice to keep her well hydrated. Zilactin Baby medicated gel, Baby Orajel Teething Pain Medicine, or Baby Anbesol also soothe teething pain. Systemic analgesics such as baby Tylenol or baby Motrin may also be helpful. Consult your pediatrician prior to giving your baby systemic pain medication. Avoid using baby aspirin because this medication has been linked to a serious condition known as Reye's syndrome.
Some conditions commonly associated with teething may require consultation with a pediatrician. Fever, diarrhea, and vomiting are almost always associated with some type of illness. If a fever lasts more than 48 hours or is above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, call your physician. If a baby is vomiting, has diarrhea, appears lethargic, or has serious sleep problems, contact your physician. Signs of gum infection include extreme redness or swelling, presence of pus, and heat in the affected area. These conditions should be examined by a physician or dentist. It is not unusual for infants to experience illnesses during the first year after birth. Distinguishing between illness and teething can sometimes be difficult.