SHARES
Lisa recently noticed her baby getting cranky. It looked like it is due to the eruption of the baby’s first tooth. She got worried as there are many common beliefs linking teething to fevers, pain and serious illnesses.
Baby teething can be distressing for many parents, thus leading to widespread myths surrounding it. Is it really painful? Does it cause fever? Read on to learn about some myths vs facts regarding baby’s teeth eruptions:
Myth: Teething can cause fever, rashes and diarrhoea
Image source
Fact:
Certain studies have found a rise in body temperature only slightly on the day before and on the actual day the tooth erupts. However, if there is a true fever (over 38 degrees Celsius), it is usually not because of teething. Moreover, higher body temperature during this period could likely be attributed to having immunizations or infections. Bacterial and viral infections are also common to babies during this period, not the act of teething itself. Parents are advised not to dismiss any serious symptoms of an illness by attributing them wrongly to teething.
Myth: Teething tablets, necklaces, numbing gels as solutions.
Fact:
Teething tablets that contain belladonna and numbing gels such as benzocaine are hazardous to babies. They have been marketed as a pain-numbing method but there are potential side effects and provide little to no benefits in treating oral pain.
Besides that, amber teething necklaces are not recommended for babies. Necklaces pose a strangulation risk or be a potential choking hazard. There have been reports of children choking on beads of the necklaces as well as death due to strangulation by amber necklace during a nap.
Image source
Myth: Teething in babies is painful.
Fact:
Teething is a natural process and often a non-event. Some children may experience irritability or fussiness during this time but baby teeth eruptions usually occur without any gum infection or problem. If the baby seems uncomfortable when teething, gently rub the gums with a clean finger or a moist gauze pad can be soothing.
A clean teether helps the baby to chew but be aware of the material it is made of. Look for solid rubber type teethers and avoid liquid-filled teething rings or objects that could break.
Image source
Myth: Baby teeth are not important.
Fact:
Baby teeth help a child to eat, speak and have a good-looking smile. They also help to maintain the space needed for the eruption of their permanent teeth. Extensive decays causing early loss of baby teeth will make permanent teeth eruption difficult due to lack of space.
Image source
Myth: Babies do not need a dentist.
Fact:
Many parents may not be fans of dentists themselves. However, dental experts recommend having a child’s first dental appointment as soon as the first tooth erupts or by his or her first birthday. The dentist can examine and make sure a normal development of the baby teeth besides establishing a good relationship with the baby. With regular dental visits, the dentist can determine if fluoride varnish is necessary for the child for further protection.
If you need to consult a Dental Surgeon: call, send an enquiry, or book an appointment on GetDoc.
Find a Dental Surgeon in Malaysia, on GetDoc
Find a Dental Surgeon in Singapore, on GetDoc
by Soh May Leng
Born and raised in Malaysia, May Leng obtained her Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Otago, New Zealand. She has joined the GetDoc team to relay valuable health information to the public. Staying active plays a big part in her daily life especially through outdoor sports such as running and swimming. She also enjoys travelling and has a passion for photography. View all articles by Soh May Leng.
