Teething

You should expect your baby to start sprouting his or her first baby teeth between 4 and 7 months, but it is not unusual for babies to still be toothless on their first birthday. It may be teething time when your baby appears to be gnawing on everything. Yet most babies are obsessed with placing things in their mouths so this may not be the best indicator.  Here are some other signs that your baby has started teething:

1. Red irritated gums.
2. Increased drooling. Keep plenty of burp clothes  around to mop up after your baby!
3. Your normally relaxed and playful baby is moody and fussy.
4. Disrupted sleep patterns can also signal the arrival of teeth. Naps become shorter and your baby may stop sleeping through the night.
5. Fever, diarrhea, and diaper rash are also known signs of teething.

While teething is an exciting milestone that lasts for nearly three years, it can also be very painful for your baby. Here are a few ways you can help soothe the pain.

Teething Rings

Babies enjoy chewing on smooth, hard teething rings,  so these really are an ideal toy. Often filled with water, so you can chill them in the refrigerator to provide soothing relief to gums. Make sure they'll fit in the mouth, but can't be swallowed. Clean the rings regularly--especially after they are dropped on the floor! Dampened or frozen washcloths  also do the trick. Cold food that can't be swallowed or choked on also make good teething rings: frozen bagels, frozen carrots and frozen bananas. Sassy  is a popular brand.

Teething Gel
	These teething gels  should provide adequate short-term relief to help your baby finally sleep through the night. Available in a few different flavors, such as cherry or grape. The downside? There's a small risk of an allergic reaction. Dosage can be tricky and messy. Baby Orajel,  Gumeze,  Anbesol,  and Hylands  are popular brands.

Teething Tablets
	Hyland's own homeopathic remedy. These teething tablets  are 100% natural, dissolve instantly on the tongue or in water, and you can administer up to 12 of them per day. Contains neither sugar nor dyes.

Pain Relief Medication
	When all else fails, it may be best to give your child pain relief medicine, such as Infant Tylenol  or Motrin.  Ask your doctor about proper dosages and if stronger medicine is needed. May help reduce fever associated with teething. Some children resist taking oral medications.

External Links

• Baby Center -- What to expect when your baby starts teething.
• American Baby -- Facts about teething.
• eHow -- Additional info on how to soothe sore gums.
• eHow -- How to stop a teething baby from biting.
• Family Doctor -- How to care for your baby's new found teeth.
• Home and Family Network -- More information on teething.