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Imagine your adorable little bundle of joy starts teething, and suddenly they’re not just drooling cute little bubbles but also sporting a slightly warmer-than-usual temperature. Baby having a fever means sleepless nights for parents, but don’t worry because I have a treasure trove of practical tips and remedies on how to break a teething fever and bring smiles back to your little one’s face.
As a parent, it’s important to know how to manage teething fever to ensure your baby’s comfort and well-being. Teething is a natural process every baby goes through, and it can be a challenging time for both parents and their little ones. One common concern during this period is the occurrence of teething fever. In this article, I will discuss how to break a teething fever, how long it lasts, why babies get fevers when teething, and what parents can do to alleviate their child’s discomfort during this time.
Understanding Teething Fever
Teething fever is a term often used by parents to describe a low-grade fever that may accompany the teething process. However, it is essential to understand that teething itself does not cause fever. If your baby experiences a rise in temperature during the teething period, it is more likely due to an unrelated infection or illness.
Why Do Babies Get Fevers When Teething?
The timing of tooth eruption (usually around 6 months of age) coincides with the age when infants start exploring their environment and putting various objects in their mouths. This exposes them to new pathogens, potentially leading to infections and fever. Additionally, babies begin to lose the antibodies transferred from their mothers during birth around 6-12 months of age. This means their immune systems have to respond to more infections, such as colds, which may also cause fever.
How Long Does a Teething Fever Last?
A true fever related to an infection or illness in a teething baby may last anywhere from a few days to a week or more, depending on the cause. It is essential to monitor your baby’s temperature and symptoms during this time and consult with a pediatrician if you are concerned about their health.
Teething Fever Range
Teething can sometimes cause a slight increase in body temperature, but it is generally considered to be a mild symptom. The range of a teething fever can vary, but it is typically below 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).
If a baby’s body temperature exceeds 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) during teething, it’s important to consider other potential causes for the fever. Teething alone should not cause a high fever. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of the fever and provide appropriate medical advice.
Safety Measures and When to Seek Medical Advice
While teething fever is generally harmless, it’s crucial to take certain safety measures and know when to seek medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician or healthcare professional for guidance and to rule out any other underlying conditions. If your baby exhibits severe symptoms like high fever, persistent vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.
Practical Tips on how to break a Teething Fever
Maintaining proper oral hygiene
- Gently brush your baby’s gums and erupting teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush or clean washcloth to soothe inflammation.
- Offer your baby teething rings or chilled washcloths to chew on, providing relief for sore gums.
Natural remedies to alleviate teething discomfort
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your baby’s cheeks to numb the pain temporarily.
- Use natural remedies like chamomile tea or diluted clove oil to soothe the gums. Consult your pediatrician for appropriate usage and dosage.
Pain relief options
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used, following the recommended dosage guidelines provided by your pediatrician.
- Ensure you are using age-appropriate formulations and consult your healthcare professional for guidance.
Comforting techniques to soothe a teething baby
- Gently massage your baby’s gums with clean fingers to provide relief and ease the discomfort.
- Use distraction techniques such as age-appropriate toys or soothing music to divert your baby’s attention from the teething discomfort.
Dietary considerations during teething
- Offer cold and soft foods like yogurt, pureed fruits, or chilled cucumber slices to soothe your baby’s gums.
- Avoid foods that may exacerbate teething discomfort, such as hard or crunchy foods.
Other Tips for Managing Teething Fever
- Maintain a comfortable sleep environment for your baby, ensuring adequate ventilation and using breathable bedding.
- Dress your baby in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to prevent overheating.
- Keep your baby hydrated by offering small sips of water throughout the day.
- Provide ample rest and relaxation to support your baby’s overall well-being during the teething phase.
Teething Molars Fever
Teething molars fever is another term parents may use to describe fever during the eruption of molars, which typically occurs between 12 and 24 months of age. Similar to teething fever, it is essential to understand that teething itself does not cause fever. If your toddler experiences a fever during the eruption of their molars, it is more likely due to an unrelated infection or illness.
Newborn Baby Teething
While it is rare, some babies may be born with teeth already visible or experience tooth eruption within the first few months of life. This is known as natal teeth or neonatal teeth. If your newborn baby is teething, it is essential to monitor their oral health and consult with a pediatric dentist for guidance and any necessary care.
Preventive Measures and Oral Care
To help maintain your baby’s oral health during the teething process, consider the following:
- Begin practicing good oral hygiene by gently cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft, damp washcloth even before their first tooth erupts.
- Introduce a soft-bristled baby toothbrush once their first tooth emerges.
- Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle, as this can lead to tooth decay.
- Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth eruption.
Soothing Teething Discomfort
- Chewing on Teething Toys – Providing your baby with safe and age-appropriate teething toys can help alleviate their discomfort. Chewing creates counter-pressure that can relieve the pain caused by emerging teeth. Many teething babies also enjoy chilled items to chew on, so consider keeping teething toys in the refrigerator.
- Massaging the Gums – Gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a soft, damp washcloth can help ease their teething pain. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before massaging your baby’s gums.
- Pain Relievers – If your teething baby is particularly irritable and over six months of age, you may consider giving them infant Motrin or Tylenol to help with pain management. Always consult with your baby’s pediatrician before administering any medication and follow their recommendations for dosage based on your child’s age and weight.
Conclusion
Teething fever is a normal part of a baby’s teething journey, and with the right approach, you can help alleviate your baby’s discomfort. By maintaining proper oral hygiene, using natural remedies, exploring pain relief options, and comforting techniques, you can soothe your teething baby’s fever. Remember to always consult your pediatrician for guidance, and provide a supportive and nurturing environment for your little one as they navigate through this developmental stage.
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