TEETHING SIGNS, DISCOMFORTS, AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEM

Drooling, red/swollen gums and fussiness are some signs that your child may be teething.  Here are some ideas to comfort him/her:

Drooling:

• Put a bib on your baby to protect his/her skin
• apply petroleum-based ointment to help soothe the red irritated skin

Red and swollen gums:

• Give your baby a cool damp washcloth (may be frozen), frozen teething ring or a firm rubber toy to chew on (check teething rings daily for cracks)
• Massage your baby's sore gums with your clean fingers
• Teething gels are not recommended for regular use

Fussiness

• Comfort your baby by cuddling or rocking him/her

Teething does not cause illness.  Call your child's doctor if your baby has a temperature of 38.5 C (101 F) and higher (taken under the arm) and/or has diarrhea.

For more information call 625-5984.