What to Expect in Toddler Teething
Toddler teething is an inevitable phase that every child will have to go through. It can happen to a small and helpless baby, and teething does come with a lot of drooling and some pain. Every good parent will definitely want to find ways to help the toddler go through teething without too much irritation. Here are some signs that will help you recognize that your child is undergoing this first dental development stage.
As new teeth sprouts out from the baby’s tender gums, fussing, crying and sleeplessness are behaviors that can normally be expected. Do take note, however, of any presence of fever because this definitely indicates infection. It is also expected that any irritation due to toddler teething is somehow lessened during the day, when the child can get easily distracted by toys or by sounds. If and when the toddler continues to be extremely agitated during the entire day, this could be a sign of a more serious ear infection which needs proper treatment.
A presence of blood, although minimal in proportion, can be expected. As the fresh tooth cuts out from the tender gum, a cyst that forms from the pressure sometimes breaks open. Notice that once the blood is released, the bleeding stops. The small and white tooth enamel can be seen at the site where the cyst once was.
Other behavior manifestations resulting from gum soreness and itchiness are the refusal to eat, drink or take anything orally. Excessive salivation can also irritate the tender skin around the mouth and can lead to rashes. When the gums constantly itch, the natural reaction for the child would be to constantly touch the gums and to bite unto anything of reach.
As a parent, you are innately predisposed to protect your child from every harm and pain. Knowing that you did your best to make your son or daughter comfortable during the toddler teething stage is very gratifying. Learning what to expect in order to adeptly prepare ways to handle this crucial stage is the right thing to do.
