Dubai, UAE - One of the best moments in parenthood is watching your baby have his or her first tooth. The adorable tiny little tooth, the chuckles, and the grins are something that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Babies will start to put their hands in their mouths and have increased saliva around 3 months of age. The timing of teething varies widely for each baby. For some babies, you’ll see their first tooth appear through their gumline at around 4 to 7 months of age. While some babies may not have any teeth by their first birthday. “When it comes to teething, all babies are different and there is no one size fits all,” says Dr. Yasmin Kottait, the best pediatric dentist in Dubai.

The two bottom front teeth (central incisors) are usually the first teeth to appear and the four front upper teeth (central and lateral incisors) appear 4 to 8 weeks later. About a month later, the two teeth flanking the bottom front teeth (lower lateral incisors) will appear, followed by the first molars (flat teeth at the back of the mouth) and then the canine (pointed teeth in both jaws). Last teeth to erupt are the second molars usually after 2 years of age or 2.5 up to 3 years of age. By the age of 3, most children will usually have all of their baby teeth, also known as primary teeth. The total teething period may last for about 3 years. “Speak to your pediatric dentist if your child’s teeth come in slower than this,” recommends Dr. Yasmin.

Signs and symptoms
Your baby may experience different symptoms during teething and not all babies need to experience it the same way. Sometimes, baby teeth emerge with no pain or discomfort at all. Parents can easily tell when their baby is teething by noticing these symptoms from time to time:
1. They may show signs of discomfort, are a little fussier, and cry more than usual
2. The gums around the area where the tooth is coming in may be tender and swollen
3. They are gnawing on things such as toys, a teething ring, or even their own fist
4. They may drool a lot more than usual from the excess saliva due to teething
5. They stay awake during the night due to discomfort or pain
6. They are rubbing their cheek or pulling their ear (this could also be a sign of an ear infection. Speak to your pediatrician if you're unsure)

Teething can usually be handled at home. In some cases if these symptoms are persistent and not getting better with time, or if your baby has a fever, diarrhea, rashes, vomiting, cough, and congestion, contact your pediatrician and pediatric dentist immediately.

Safe ways to soothe your baby’s sore mouth
Teething is generally a dull, aching pain. You can massage the sore gums with a clean toothbrush or a wet washcloth to help ease the pain. A cold spoon or chilled teething ring (not frozen) can also be used to soothe your baby's gums. Once your baby has a tooth, you should begin the brushing routine. Brush the tooth with fluoride toothpaste the size of a rice grain, twice a day - after the morning feeding and before bed. It’s best to not put your baby to bed with a sippy cup or bottle containing milk, juice, or other sugary drinks as this can cause early childhood cavities. Once your child turns 3, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and a small, soft-bristled toothbrush to brush twice daily. “Regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup in your baby’s mouth and helps set a foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums,” says Dr. Yasmin.

Another great way to distract your baby from discomfort is by getting them involved with toys and activities. This can often take his/her mind off being uncomfortable.
If you’re offering a teething biscuit or fruit pops, make sure to carefully monitor your baby while they are eating it. Speak to your dentist before you give any over-the-counter remedy or if teething interferes with your baby’s eating or drinking.

Hugs and snuggles from parents are just what every baby needs. That cuddly time you spend with your baby can sometimes be the best remedy for teething and help alleviate their pain as this provides the feeling of being comforted. Good oral hygiene starts at infancy. Incorporating a good oral hygiene regimen as early as possible is imperative to your child's future dental health. Make your baby’s first dental appointment after the first tooth has erupted or by his or her first birthday. Regular dental visits from an early age ensure your child’s permanent teeth stay healthy and help prevent cavities and tooth decay.

About Dr. Yasmin Kottait: Having dedicated 16 years of her career to spreading smiles and imparting knowledge of oral hygiene to children, Dr. Yasmin is a renowned name and face in the field of pediatric dentistry in Dubai. Her joyful personality and magical kid-whispering powers make dental appointments for kids an easy sail – and lots of fun, that they never miss a single dental appointment with her! Dr. Yasmin is also one of the few Autism friendly dentists in the region, with a diploma in Cognitive Based Hypnotherapy and IBCCES Autism certification.