Teething marks a significant developmental phase for infants, often accompanied by discomfort. Understanding the signs, especially visual changes in the gums, helps caregivers identify when their baby is teething and how to provide comfort. This article guides parents through recognizing teething gums and other associated symptoms, along with practical tips for soothing their baby and knowing when to seek medical advice.
Visual Signs of Teething Gums
Normal baby gums are typically smooth, soft, and pink. However, teething gums undergo noticeable changes. Parents might observe that the gums appear swollen, inflamed, and distinctly redder, especially in the area where a tooth is preparing to emerge.
The gum tissue might also appear taut, shiny, or even bruised with a bluish tint, indicating a tooth is close to breaking through. A small, hard bump or ridge can sometimes be felt or seen on the gum surface as the tooth pushes upwards. Occasionally, the tip of the tooth, appearing as a tiny white spot, might become visible just beneath the gum. Excessive drooling often accompanies these gum changes.
Other Common Teething Symptoms
Beyond visual gum changes, teething often presents with other behavioral and physical signs. Babies commonly become more irritable, fussy, or clingy. An increased desire to chew or bite on objects like toys or fingers is a frequent symptom, as this pressure can help relieve gum discomfort.
Teething can affect eating habits; some may show reluctance to eat or drink due to sore gums, while others might chew on solid foods for relief. Sleep patterns can be disrupted, leading to difficulty falling asleep or more frequent night awakenings. A slight elevation in body temperature, typically below 100.4°F (38°C), can occur, but a high fever is generally not a direct symptom of teething and warrants further investigation. Babies might also pull at their ears or rub their cheeks and chin, a response to referred pain from the gums.
Comforting Your Teething Baby
Several methods can alleviate a baby’s teething discomfort. Offer safe, clean teething toys or rings, especially those chilled in the refrigerator (not frozen, as overly hard items can damage gums). These provide soothing pressure. Gently massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger can provide significant relief. Cold compresses, such as a chilled, damp washcloth, can be effective.
For older babies who have started solids, offering chilled foods like soft fruits or purees in a mesh feeder can be soothing. Managing excessive drooling is important to prevent skin irritation; regularly wiping the baby’s face and chin keeps the area dry. If discomfort persists, infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months) may be considered after consulting a pediatrician for correct dosage. Providing extra comfort and cuddles also reassures a distressed baby.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While teething is a normal process, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. A high fever, defined as a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C), is typically not caused by teething alone and suggests a different underlying condition. Other severe symptoms, such as persistent diarrhea, vomiting, widespread rash, or intense pain unresponsive to comfort measures, are red flags.
Concerns about a baby not eating or drinking adequately, leading to potential dehydration, should prompt a call to a healthcare provider. Any unusual gum appearance, such as extreme swelling, significant bleeding, or pus, requires professional evaluation. Parents should trust their instincts and contact their pediatrician with any significant worries about their baby’s health or symptoms.