The early morning sunlight filtered softly through the clinic window as I settled at my desk with a cup of tea. The waiting room was just beginning to fill with the usual symphony of coos, giggles, and the occasional cry. As I glanced through the day’s schedule, I noticed Meena and her 10-month-old daughter, Arya, were due in shortly. Arya had been in a few months ago for her routine vaccinations, and I remembered her bright eyes and infectious laugh. I hoped today’s visit wasn’t for anything too troubling.
A soft knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. “Dr. Priya?” Meena’s familiar voice came through, tinged with exhaustion.
I looked up with a smile. “Come in, Meena!”
She entered, balancing Arya on her hip. The little one was chewing relentlessly on a rubber teething ring, her cheeks flushed and her brow furrowed in frustration.
“Good morning, Arya!” I greeted her, reaching out my hand. Arya paused just long enough to flash a brief, gummy smile before returning to her determined gnawing.
Meena sighed, settling into the chair. “Dr. Priya, it’s been a tough week. Arya’s been drooling nonstop, chewing on everything, and she’s so irritable. Nights are the worst. I feel like neither of us has slept.”
I nodded understandingly. “Sounds like teething might be the culprit. Let’s take a closer look and talk through some ways to make it easier for both of you.”
When Does Teething Occur?
Teething is a milestone every baby goes through, but the experience can vary greatly. I explained to Meena, “Teething usually starts around 6 months of age and continues until the child is about 2 to 3 years old. By the time Arya is 3, she should have her full set of 20 baby teeth.”
I showed Meena a simple diagram of baby teeth eruption patterns:
| Tooth Type | Age of Eruption |
|---|---|
| 1st Incisors (Bottom) | 6-10 months |
| 1st Incisors (Top) | 8-12 months |
| 2nd Incisors (Top) | 9-13 months |
| 2nd Incisors (Bottom) | 10-16 months |
| 1st Molars (Top) | 13-19 months |
| 1st Molars (Bottom) | 14-18 months |
| Canines (Top) | 16-22 months |
| Canines (Bottom) | 17-23 months |
| 2nd Molars (Bottom) | 23-31 months |
| 2nd Molars (Top) | 25-33 months |
“These are just average ranges,” I assured her. “Every child is different. Some babies are born with teeth, while others might not get their first tooth until after their first birthday.”
Common Symptoms of Teething
As I gently examined Arya’s gums, I noticed the telltale signs of teething — swollen, red gums with a tiny white tooth bud peeking through. “Here are some typical teething symptoms you might notice,” I explained:
- Swollen, Red Gums: The gums may appear puffy or inflamed where the tooth is about to emerge.
- Excessive Drooling: Arya’s drooling is normal. Babies produce more saliva during teething.
- Irritability and Fussiness: The discomfort can make babies more clingy and prone to crying.
- Chewing and Biting: Babies instinctively chew on objects to relieve pressure on their gums.
- Difficulty Sleeping: Discomfort can disrupt sleep patterns.
- Loss of Appetite: Sore gums can make feeding painful.
- Facial Rash: Drool can irritate the skin around the mouth and chin.
Meena nodded, ticking off each symptom in her mind. “That’s Arya to a T,” she sighed.
Soothing Methods for Teething
I handed Meena a handout and walked her through some practical ways to help Arya:
- Gentle Gum Massage:
“Use a clean finger or a soft cloth to gently rub Arya’s gums. The pressure can relieve some discomfort.” - Cold Relief:
“Chill a teething ring in the fridge — not the freezer — and let Arya chew on it. You can also offer a cold, damp washcloth to gnaw on.” - Teething Biscuits:
“If Arya has started solids, a hard teething biscuit can help. Just supervise her closely.” - Teething Toys:
“Offer safe, BPA-free teething toys. Arya seems to love her teething ring already!” - Soothing Baths:
“A warm bath can relax her, especially before bedtime.” - Medication:
“For severe discomfort, a small dose of paracetamol can help. Avoid teething gels with benzocaine — they’re not recommended for babies.”
What About Dark Teeth or Loose Stools?
Meena hesitated. “I’ve read that teething can cause dark teeth or loose stools. Is that true?”
I smiled reassuringly. “Some breastfed babies, especially those nursing beyond 2 years, may develop pitted, dark teeth. This is cosmetic and won’t affect their adult teeth. As for loose stools, while teething can cause drooling, which might lead to looser stools, it shouldn’t cause diarrhea. If Arya has persistent diarrhea, let’s rule out other causes.”
When to See a Doctor
“Teething is tough, but it shouldn’t cause high fever, diarrhea, or severe pain,” I explained. “Come back if Arya shows any of these signs, or if you’re ever worried.”
Reassurance for Parents
Meena exhaled slowly, a faint smile returning. “This helps a lot, Dr. Priya. It’s comforting to know there are things I can do.”
I nodded. “You’re doing great, Meena. Remember, this phase will pass. Arya’s discomfort is temporary, and you’re not alone. I’m here whenever you need support.”
As Meena gathered Arya into her arms, I waved goodbye to the little one, who gnawed happily on her teething ring. Another small moment of relief — for Meena, for Arya, and for me. These connections, these tiny victories, are why I love what I do.
