As much as we look forward to that first tooth, the process of having it come through may make your little one so miserable it can break your heart and shred your nerves all at the same time. Babies normally show signs of teething at around 6 months and although many may share the same symptoms, the process is unpredictable at best. One child may get through this potentially difficult time with no problem while another seems to be miserable every day.
Knowing some of what to expect is half the battle and can help to lower parental stress or worry. There are seven major signs of teething covered in this blog but it's rare for a baby to have every one of them. Most babies don't need a trip to the pediatrician for teething issues, but bear in mind some of these symptoms could be an indication of illness that has nothing to do with teeth coming through.
1. Drooling Excessively
The biggest reason babies drool is because it takes time for them to learn to swallow their saliva. In the meantime, their body creates extra to ease tender, bulging gums but new teeth aren't the only reason for excessive drool. The act of chewing anything, even without teeth encourages the body to produce more saliva than they can swallow so it dribbles down their chins instead. The biggest danger here is chapped, irritated skin and the easiest fix for that is simple petroleum jelly.
Another reason for drooling may seem unbelievable but is true nonetheless. It is a necessary stage in growth and development because saliva has the special enzymes needed to digest solid food as well as helping to neutralize excess stomach acid. Baby's intestinal lining needs all that drool for healthy development and it also helps to heal irritated esophageal linings that can become sore from spitting up so often.
