The first teeth
Early signs: How teeth make themselves known
When babies get their first tooth varies greatly. There are even babies born with a tooth. In others, the first teeth only show up at <LINK> BABY development month 10 ten months or later the first teeth. Most babies, however, begin teething between the 5th and <LINK> BABY development month 6 6th month of life to start teething. Usually the two lower incisors break through first, followed by the two upper ones.
Foundation for teeth already in the womb: The tooth buds from which the milk teeth develop already form during pregnancy in the baby's jaw. After birth, the tooth buds continue to grow until they break through the surface of the gums.
Chewing and drooling: In most children, teething first shows through heavy drooling. They also begin to chew on all available objects – especially their own fingers or on toys.
Elevated temperature: There is no medically proven connection between teething and fever. Nevertheless, many parents experience that their children have a low fever when they get teeth. Possibly the immune system is somewhat weakened in this situation, so febrile infections can take hold more easily. Generally, 'teething fever' is harmless – as is diarrhea, which is sometimes mentioned as a symptom of teething.
Restlessness and frequent waking: Babies who are teething are often restless and tearful. Your baby may now wake up more often at night. It doesn't always have to be pain – sometimes babies are simply 'annoyed' by the unusual pressure on their gums.
Red, swollen cheeks: Especially with molars, your baby's face can swell a little. Many children get one-sided red cheeks, as if they had a fever. The sensitive gums also often swell for a short time.
How to relieve teething pain
Give something to chew on – for example a liquid-filled teething ring that can be cooled in the fridge.
Cool foods: For children already eating solid foods, chilled fruit purée or yogurt can ease pain.
Distraction: Now play, read, and cuddle especially a lot – with a bit of luck your baby can be distracted from the bothersome teeth.
Comforting: Many babies are very clingy during teething – respond to their need for cuddling to comfort them through the pain.
Gum massage: Your baby probably has their fingers in their mouth anyway, but if you allow it, you can try gently massaging the gums with your index finger.
Teething gel: relieves pain locally and helps many babies sleep more peacefully – but it is not a long-term solution.
Homeopathic remedies, such as Osanit pellets or Escatitone drops may help if your baby is in severe pain – when in doubt, ask your midwife or pediatrician.
Paracetamol should only be a last resort and, with teething pain, is best given only in consultation with the pediatrician.
Violet root: This old home remedy is considered an effective pain reliever and is available at the pharmacy. Babies like to chew on the dried root, but should not be left alone while doing so to avoid inserting it too far.
Brushing from the first tooth – how to do it
As soon as the first tooth appears, it should be brushed. This is a challenge, because hardly any baby can be enthusiastic about brushing. For the first teeth, especially soft children's toothbrushes and a mild children's toothpaste are suitable. If your baby receives fluoride tablets, you should avoid using a fluoride toothpaste.
Brush regularly & consistently: Make toothbrushing a fixed ritual from the start, e.g. in the morning after breakfast and in the evening before going to bed. Weaned babies should only drink water before falling asleep and at night – bottle milk, juices or sweet teas at night harm the milk teeth.
Teach brushing: Let your child handle the toothbrush themselves, but always thoroughly brush their teeth afterwards. Dentists recommend doing this until elementary school age.
Dental care: From about age three, you should take your child to the dentist twice a year. Children are often less apprehensive if they have already accompanied their parents playfully to the dentist at one or two years of age.
