Baby Keeps Rubbing Checks and Ears Baby Keeps Rubbing Cheeks and Ears

When your baby is around six months old, they may cut their first tooth! But before the first tooth bud appears, you may see the signs of teething. Find out what they are.

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Disturbed sleep

Teething can be a painful process, and this can keep your baby awake at night. So if your baby is suddenly finding it hard to settle down and rest, teething could be the cause. Try to stick to your baby's bedtime routine and comfort them if they're unsettled.

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Drooling

All babies drool a little, but a teething baby will often end up with a very wet chin! Extra drool can make your baby's chin sore, so dab it dry with a soft tissue as often as you can. Put a smear of petroleum jelly on your baby's chin for extra protection.

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Flushed cheeks

Rosy-red cheeks are a common sign of teething. Your baby's cheeks go red because the tooth that is coming through the gum can cause irritation. You may notice that your baby's cheeks also feel warm.

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Chewing fingers

Chewing helps to relieve the pain and pressure of teething, so you may notice your baby trying to self-soothe by chewing on their fingers. Try to keep your baby's hands and nails clean so they don't swallow any germs.

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Chewing objects

Babies love to put things in their mouths, but if your baby has started to nibble on anything they can get their hands on, they may be teething. Try giving your baby a teething ring as this will help to soothe their gums. Avoid using anything that could be broken into hard pieces, as your baby could choke on them.

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Swollen gums

Swollen, red gums are a sure sign of teething. Gently rubbing your clean finger over your baby's gums may help to soothe them.

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Being fractious

The pain from teething can make your baby irritable, and they may cry more. If your baby is upset by teething, cuddles and kisses are the best cure.

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Inconsistent feeding

Sore, swollen gums can make sucking painful for your baby. If your baby is hungry, but keeps coming off your breast or bottle, they may have a tooth coming through. If your baby has started solids, try feeding them cold apple puree or chilled, plain yoghurt.

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Rubbing ear

Your baby may rub their ear on the same side as an erupting tooth. This doesn't necessarily mean they are teething though. They may have an ear infection. If you're in any doubt, check with your GP.

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Tooth buds appearing!

If you look into your baby's mouth, you may see little tooth buds. These buds will look like small bumps along your baby's gum. If you run a clean finger over them, you may be able to feel the hard tooth underneath.

Watch our video for more tips on how to soothe your teething baby.

Baby Keeps Rubbing Checks and Ears Baby Keeps Rubbing Cheeks and Ears

Source: https://www.babycentre.co.uk/l25007369/signs-and-symptoms-of-teething-photos