First Impressions Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Being a new parent is hard enough without the added complexity of teething toddlers. Aka: added fussiness, loss of appetite and poor sleep – for all. 

So what should you look out for in the teething process, and what can you do to help? Remember these facts:

• On average, teething takes about two weeks from the first sign of swollen gums to seeing the tiny sliver of tooth poking through. 
• Typically, the height of irritability comes one to two days after the first signs of swollen gums.
• To help alleviate the initial discomfort, increase blood flow to the space by massaging gums lightly with a clean finger or using a fingertip toothbrush. 
• As the tooth nears eruption and discomfort rises, offer further relief by chilling either a teething toy or a dampened washcloth for 15-20 minutes. As always, monitor your child while using a teething tool of any sort. 
• While teeth are coming in, brushing in that area might not be an enjoyable experience due to increased sensitivity. Instead, use a warm damp cloth to keep this area clean until it’s more accessible. 

F R I E N D L Y  R E M I ND E R S 

• Every child develops at his/her own pace. There is a HUGE range of variability when it comes to developing teeth; eruption charts are only meant to serve as a guide!  
• If your little one is 18 months old and there’s still no signs of teeth OR if teeth are coming in one year + past the expected timeframes, give us a call so we can take a look for you!
• It’s NEVER too late to set up a first dental visit! The typical recommendation is first tooth or first birthday = first dental visit. Maybe you’ve missed that goal and you’re worried about being behind. Don’t be! We’re firm believers that it’s never too late to start your child on a path to a healthy smile.