During teething, the milk tooth which has been developing within the jaw moves into its position within the mouth – this process is also known as tooth eruption. Possible symptoms associated with teething include irritability, increased salivation, runny nose, loss of appetite, diarrhea, rash, sleep disturbance and slight increase in temperature.
However, should a child be experiencing more severe signs and symptoms such as fever above 39C, he or she should be brought to a doctor. This is because there might be another cause.
With regards to relieving teething symptoms, there have been many studies and debatable old wives’ tales and remedies. The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends using cold items such as pacifiers, spoons, clean wet washcloths or refrigerated teething rings. The cold may help to soothe the gums.
It is advisable to seek a health professional’s advice should parents decide to use any sort of pain-relieving medication or gels. This ensures the correct dosage is used since certain medicament may cause local reactions.
Sources:
Joana Ramos-Jorge, Isabela A. Pordeus, Maria L. Ramos-Jorge, and Saul M. Paiva Pediatrics. August 8, 2011. Prospective Longitudinal Study of Signs and Symptoms Associated With Primary Tooth Eruption. 2011; 128:3 471-476. doi:10.1542/peds. 2010-2697
Owais AI, Zawaideh F, Bataineh O. 2010 Feb. Challenging parents’ myths regarding their children’s teething.;8(1):28-34. doi: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2009.00412.x. Erratum in: Int J Dent Hyg. 2010 Nov;8(4):324. PMID: 20096079
Koch G, Lindhe J. 1970. The state of the gingivae and caries increment in school children during and after withdrawal of various prophylactic measures. In McHugh W D (ed) Dental Plaque. pp271– 281. Edinburgh: Livingstone.
