How to Calm a Teething Toddler

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By annhoward
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When babies begin to teethe, a number of maladies can present themselves. Some children can go practically without symptoms when erupting teeth while others may become fussy, or suffer from such complaints as sore gums, drooling, slightly high temperatures, and runny noses.

Usually, on average, a baby will begin to teethe around 6 months of age although children can start the process at various times. Nonetheless, on the norm, a baby will erupt about one tooth per month until they're around 2 years old, or until they possess all 20 of their "baby" teeth.

Should your baby exhibit some of the symptoms that go along with teething, there are a number of steps you can take to make their his or her life more comfortable.

The following steps should make this phase in your child's development a little more easy to handle when the time comes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

When your child finally starts teething, provide him or her with teething objects that provide a degree of comfort, such as rubber teething rings.
Step 2

If your child is fussy, give him or her the appropriate dosage of acetaminophen in drops (not aspirin). However, check first with your doctor or pediatrician as to the proper medication.
Step 3

To reduce the anxiety and pain of teething, give you child cool liquids to drink.
Step 4

Give your baby teething biscuits or crackers to reduce teething symptoms and provide comfort.
Step 5

Putting a pacifier in the refrigerator, or allowing it to freeze is helpful in providing relief. Give the cool pacifier to your infant to suck on to reduce pain.
Step 6

Rub ice on your toddler's gum if he or she is compliant.

Tips & Warnings

Do not give your baby anything made of thin or breakable plastic. Such pieces can be bitten and, resultantly, choked on.
Keep your baby from gnawing on painted items, such as furniture, particularly when the paint may be lead-based.

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