TEETHING

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR TEETHING

1. Reassurance:  Teething is a natural process.  It's harmless and it causes little if any pain.  It doesn't cause fever or crying.
2. Gum Massage:  Find the irritated or swollen gum.  Massage it with your finger for 2 minutes.  Do this as often as necessary.  You may use a piece of ice wrapped in a wet cloth to massage the gum.
3. Teething Rings or Teething Biscuits: Infants massage their own gums by chewing on smooth, hard objects.
   • Offer a teething ring, pacifier or wet washcloth that has been chilled in the refrigerator, but not frozen in the freezer.  A piece of chilled banana may help.
   • Avoid hard foods that could cause choking (e.g., raw carrots).
   • Avoid ice or Popsicles that could cause frostbite of the gums.
4. Cup Feeding:  If your infant refuses nipple feedings, use a cup temporarily.
5. Pain Medicine:  If the pain increases, give acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) orally for 1 day.   (Special teething gels are unnecessary.  If you want to use one, don't apply it more than 4 times a day.  Reason: risk of overdosage.)
6. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Develops unexplained crying.
   • Develops fever above 101°F (38.4°C).
   • Your child becomes worse.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

See Other Topics:

• Crying Child Older Than 3 Months Old (Irritability, Fussiness)
• Fever

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