Gum Pain In Babies
Gum pain in babies is a consequence of the long and painful teething process that little ones undergo during the first months of age. Although there is no set date for the birth of the baby’s first tooth, in most cases it happens around six months of age.
Around two and a half years, the little one should already have all his baby teeth. Also, during the teething process, the baby may show symptoms for months or just the days before the tooth comes in.
To treat gum pain in babies, there are some tips to keep in mind. In any case, it is very important to consult a pediatrician if the baby has other symptoms related to gum pain, such as episodes of fever, extreme irritability in the affected area or feeding problems.
Gum pain in babies
The teething process can be painful, leading to crying, drooling, and other behaviors, as babies try to control the pain.
However, you shouldn’t be overly concerned about sore gums in babies . Yes, instead, you should know that a common cause for concern occurs when the baby’s gums bleed during the process.
Generally, bleeding gums are caused by teeth breaking down their delicate tissue. However, it can also be caused by bacteria that cause inflammation.
However, it should not be a cause for alarm, as it is a normal consequence. Other causes associated with teething are tenderness, swelling, bruising, and pain.
How to soothe gum pain in babies?
There are many things you can try before turning to pain relievers or gels to soothe sore gums in babies. Giving your baby something cool to chew on can relieve pressure and pain. In this sense, we recommend you try the following:
- Rub a clean finger or damp gauze over your baby’s sore gums to temporarily numb the pain. Keep in mind that babies like to feel that kind of pressure on their gums because it distracts their brain from the sensation of teething pain.
- Give the baby a teething ring. Solid silicone-based teething rings are better than liquid-filled products as they do not leak and can be sterilized.
- If the baby is over 6 months old, you can also let him chew cold and soft foods like banana, cucumber or plain yogurt. Do not use hard foods, as they could break into pieces and cause him to choke.
- Never tie any pain reliever object around the baby’s neck for ease of use, as there is a danger of strangulation. This includes teething rings or dolls.
- You can also try some cold water straight from the bottle or, if you prefer, in a feeding cup.
On the other hand, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, given in the right dose for the baby’s weight, can relieve gum pain in babies. In this case, it is a requirement to speak with the baby’s doctor before using anesthetic gels or homeopathic remedies.
When should you go to the hospital?
If your little one shows nothing but swollen gums and typical teething symptoms, there’s no need to be alarmed. However, if you consider that the child suffers from other types of behavioral irregularities or a secondary problem, it will be necessary to seek medical attention immediately.
Likewise, we also recommend that you contact the pediatrician if you observe that the little one suffers from feeding problems, goes through an abrupt change in temperament, has blood in the navel, contracts a very high fever, or, on the contrary, experiences episodes from diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, or dehydration.
Finally, remember that, by massaging the baby’s gums, you will be able to detect if the pain suffered by the little one is due to teething. In most cases, you shouldn’t be overly concerned as it comes naturally and will pass over time.
