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Teething is a time of firsts for us parents, and seeing our little ones irritated or in pain can be a source of great worry. So, it stands to reason we’ll have many questions surrounding this stage in our children’s lives.
While it’s important to remember that all children are different, we’ve compiled some of the most common teething concerns you may have:
Why is my teething baby not sleeping properly?
Cutting teeth can cause pain and irritability in the night-time as well as the day, so it’s not uncommon for teething babies to experience disrupted sleep.
However, bear in mind that your child’s disrupted sleep may just be a coincidence. Look out for symptoms of illness or infection, and also consider that your baby may be learning new skills, like sitting and rolling over – and it’s possible this could be the culprit keeping them awake.
Why does my teething baby have a temperature?
An elevated temperature generally happens as a result of a baby’s sore, swollen gums. This can make little ones fussy and irritated, leading to a rise in temperature.
However, teething should only bring on a mild raise in temperature – so if your child has a high fever, it’s possible it could actually be due to an infection or illness like earache, cold or flu. Keep a close eye out for other symptoms, and if your child runs a fever over 37.5°C, it’s advised to make an appointment to see your doctor.
Why does my teething baby have a rash?
Teething causes a child to drool more than usual, and with this can come a rash on the chin, mouth and chest. Often called ‘drool rash’, this generally appears in the form of red splotches and bumps.
This rash is usually nothing to worry about and should clear up without medication – a homecare treatment of unscented baby wash and moisturiser should do the trick. However, if you’re unsure about the rash, or if you have any concerns, it’s advised to contact your doctor.
Why is my teething toddler attempting to chew everything in sight?
It's simple really: teething babies like to chew and bite because the pressure relieves their gums. Teeth cutting through make gums feel sore, so when baby chews or bites, the counter pressure can ease the soreness.
Why is my teething toddler grinding their teeth?
It’s common for teething babies to grind their teeth at night – usually starting just after the first teeth have cut through. The grinding shouldn't harm their teeth, but if they have a sore face or jaw when they wake up, or if you have any other worries, call or pop into your GP or dentist for advice.
