Teething is a natural and unavoidable experience for infants. It can cause both babies and their parent’s distress and distress from the discomfort and pain that it brings along with it. As parents, it’s often difficult to provide relief to our little ones during this challenging time.
One of the most common questions that parents ask is, “How long does teething fussiness last?” In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide some tips on how to ease your baby’s discomfort during this time.
How Long Does Teething Fussiness Last?
Teething can be an irritating stage for babies, and the length and severity of their fussiness may vary.
Generally, symptoms start to show when the baby is 6 months old, though some may experience them as early as 3 months or as late as a year.
Each child’s teething experience can be different from the next. Some may go through it with mild discomfort and others may experience more severe symptoms, depending on the duration and intensity.
Most babies get their first tooth sometime between 3 and 12 months of age. After that, more teeth will start appearing until the child has all 20 primary teeth by the time they turn 3.
Babies can experience several discomforts when teething, including drooling, swollen and tender gums, irritability, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and even a mild fever. It can be quite hard to understand how to help them during this time as these symptoms make them cranky and unhappy.
Tips to Ease Teething Fussiness
Here are some tips that can help ease your baby’s teething fussiness:
1. Provide something to chew on
If your baby is going through the teething process and appears to be in distress, giving them something to chew on can bring relief.
Try providing them with a clean teething ring or a cold washcloth. Avoid any teething toys that have liquid or gel filling as they may rupture and become a choking hazard.
2. Massage the gums
You can help soothe your baby’s teething discomfort by softly rubbing their gums with your finger or a moist washcloth.
To add extra relief, you can apply a bit of teething gel – but make sure to follow the directions of the product and use it sparingly.
3. Apply a cold compress
To ease the pain of teething, a cold compress may be helpful for your baby’s gums. You can use a cold wet cloth or an appropriately chilled teething ring – just make sure it isn’t too icy!
4. Offer cold foods
Cold foods can provide relief to your baby’s teething discomfort. Apples, bananas, and frozen yogurt pops are perfect options as they are easy to chew, require minimal supervision, and aren’t a choking hazard. Be sure to keep an eye on your little ones while they’re eating so that their safety isn’t compromised.
5. Keep them clean and dry
During teething, your baby’s skin can be affected by the drool they produce. To keep them comfortable and prevent irritation, it’s important to wipe their face regularly and use a bib that’ll help catch the drool.
6. Provide comfort and distraction
To give your infant extra comfort and distraction, try giving them a hug, singing to them, reading a book aloud, or going for a walk together.
Changing the environment or playing with new toys can also be beneficial and provide relief from any discomfort they may be feeling.
When to Call the Doctor?
Teething challenges are a natural part of infant development, but there are times when a checkup with the pediatrician is in order. In any case, rest assured that it won’t last forever and your baby will soon be back to their usual self.
Call the doctor if:
- Your baby has a high fever (over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Your baby is refusing to eat or drink
- Your baby has diarrhea or vomiting
- Your baby has a rash or other symptoms that concern you
- Your baby seems to be in significant pain or discomfort, despite your efforts to soothe them.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult with a healthcare specialist as they might be indicative of an underlying infection or illness. Getting prompt medical attention and evaluation can help protect your health.
Closing Thoughts
The teething process is something every baby goes through, it can be a difficult time for both the baby and the parents alike.
The teething period varies in length, ranging from a few days to several months – depending on the infant’s development.
If your baby is teething, there are several ways to alleviate their discomfort. These include chewing on toys or other objects, massaging their gums, offering cold foods, and providing ample distraction and comfort.
Teething is a typical phase in infant growth and should go away with time.
Nonetheless, if you have unresolved worries about your baby’s fussiness, it’s best to consult their doctor for guidance.
With the right strategies and medical assistance when necessary, you can help your baby thrive during this distressing period. You can also make sure they maintain their good mood and health so they remain happy and healthy.
