由 home-healthhaven 
Teething is a milestone in your child’s life when their first teeth start coming in. While this is an exciting step, it’s often painful for your baby. Many parents notice their child is cranky, drooling a lot, and crying more than usual during this time.
**What to Expect During Teething**
The timing for the first tooth can vary, but many parents see it around their baby’s sixth month. You might spot something white on the gums where the lower front teeth will appear. Experts say teething can cause irritability and drooling, and your baby might chew on anything they can grab to ease the discomfort in their sore gums.
Teething can sometimes cause a mild fever, not going over 99°F (37.2°C). Some people think it can cause a higher fever or diarrhea, but scientific research doesn’t fully support that.
**How to Soothe Your Teething Baby**
Once you know your baby is teething, you’ll want to help ease their pain. Here are some simple and safe ways to do that:
**Massage Their Gums**
One easy method is to gently massage your baby’s gums. Wash your hands first, then use your finger to apply pressure on the sore spots. You can also use a clean, damp gauze pad.
**Keep It Cool**
Another way to soothe your baby’s gums is to let them chew on a cold washcloth or plastic spoon. The cold helps numb the pain, similar to how ice can help a sprain.
**Use Teethers or Solid Foods**
You can give your baby teethers made of silicone or other safe materials. Solid foods like peeled carrot or cucumber slices are also a good option. Although your baby doesn’t have many teeth yet, there’s still a small chance they could bite off a piece, so always supervise them closely.
**Apply Topical Ointment**
If nothing else works, you can try an over-the-counter ointment to numb the gums. Products with acetaminophen or ibuprofen are usually fine, but avoid anything with lidocaine or benzocaine unless prescribed by a doctor.
**Consult an Expert**
While these tips can help, if your baby seems especially uncomfortable, it’s best to consult a pediatric dentist. They can provide additional guidance and assistance.
By being prepared and knowing some effective soothing techniques, you can help your little one get through the teething phase with a bit more comfort.