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[Teething] [Thyroid Cancer] [Tonsillitis]

TEETHING

Teething is the emergence of teeth through the gums of the mouth in infants and young children. Teething is the process of teeth moving and breaking through the gums. This is a normal developmental stage for your baby. Some babies get their first tooth a little earlier and others a little later.

TARGET GROUP:

Infants and young children usually in the age group of 5 months to 3 years are affected.

TYPE OF DISEASE:

Although timing varies widely, most babies lose their toothless grins by about age 6 months. Often, the two middle bottom teeth come through the gums first, followed by the middle four upper teeth. By the time children are 30 months (2 1/2 years) of age, all 20 baby teeth are usually present. These teeth include 4 incisors, 2 canines, and 4 molars in each jaw for the total of 20. The 2 lower central incisors (bottom front) usually erupt first followed by the 2 upper central incisors, and then the lower and upper lateral (side) incisors, lower molars, upper molars, lower canines, upper canines, lower lateral molars, and finally the upper lateral molars. Teething can be an ordeal for parents and babies alike.

 

SYMPTOMS:

There are several symptoms of teething:

• Drooling
• Bulging gums
• Irritability and crankiness
• Swollen gums
• Chewing on hard, solid things
• Difficulty in sleeping
• Waking up at night

 

AFFECTED AREA:

The mouth, gums, and face are affected by this developmental stage in children called teething.

CAUSES:

The uneasiness and discomfort due to teething is caused by the pressure exerted on the tissue in the mouth, called the periodontal membrane, as the teeth come out.

 

RISK TO SUFFERER:

There may be a rash on the baby's face, lips, chin, neck, and chest due to excessive drooling. Mild diarrhoea and fever can also occur. Excessive saliva running down the baby's throat can cause coughing.

TREATMENT:

This discomfort of teething may be eased by a cool object such as a firm rubber teething ring or a cold apple. Gently massaging the gums with a cool, wet washcloth, or a clean finger, can also help to relieve the discomfort. Excessive drooling should be wiped dry with a clean and soft cloth to prevent skin rash. The gums should not be cut to facilitate the eruption of teeth since infection can result. Teething powders should also be avoided. Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can be taken for relieving pain and getting some sleep.