Could My Baby Be Crying From Tooth Pain?

A crying baby can be very unsettling– especially when it’s your own child. Babies cry for a few different reasons, some of the more common ones are that they’re hungry, tired, have a full diaper, or they’re in some kind of pain. Although, in some cases babies suffer from colic, which is when a baby cries for no apparent reason. So a baby crying from tooth pain isn’t too far of a stretch. Thus, the answer to the title of this blog is yes, babies can definitely cry from tooth pain- especially when they are teething.

What is Teething and Why Do Babies Do It?

When baby teeth begin to grow in, they may cause some pain as they push through the gums. To counteract the pressure of the teeth pushing down into the mouth, babies may feel the urge to put things in their mouths to bite down and help relieve the pain. The act of wanting to put something in their mouths and bite down on it is referred to as ‘teething’ and it usually begins around six months of age or earlier.

What Can I Do To Relieve My Baby’s Teething?

If you notice that your child is teething, drooling, and/or their gums appear more red than usual, there are things you can do to help relieve their pain at home. Here are some common remedies to help ease teething and tooth pain:

1. Massage
   1. Try massaging your baby’s gums with clean fingers to help ease the pain – this can be very effective
2. Cold compresses
   1. Holding a clean, cold rag to your baby’s gums can help soothe them and ease pain and inflammation
3. Medication
   1. Ask your pediatrician if you can give your child a small dose of baby tylenol if all else fails
4. Beware of teething rings
   1. Some websites sell teething rings, but it is important to practice caution with them as some materials can break off in a child’s mouth and become a choking hazard. Some doctors don’t recommend them at all, so make sure to do your research before making a decision.

When your child goes for their first dental appointment, bring a few questions regarding teething and what to expect in the upcoming months when it comes to their dental development. Many pediatric dentists have good tips and insights on how to best handle a baby that seems to be teething!