Introduction:
   
Babies usually have their first teeth at 6 months. But by 2-1/2 to 3 years, it becomes a whole set of 20 tiny teeth. But this varies from baby to baby. Some babies are   known to have their first tooth at the age of 15 months and some are even born with 1 or more teeth. At 6 years of age, the first set of teeth falls paving the way for the new and permanent set of teeth.
   
Some of those tiny baby teeth (molars & canines) are the ones that secure the space in place so that the adult teeth can take

over the space later.  So when those baby teeth go bad too soon and have to be removed, the space will be lost. This is what results in crooked teeth.

Symptoms of teething:
Babies undergo irritability, loss of appetite, waking up during night, ear pulling chewing on things, coughing to clear the throat, drooling (this might cause rash around the face and neck), swollen gums and bluish red blister (hematoma) while teething.

Methods to relieve teething discomfort:
To help relieve teething discomfort, these methods can be tried:-

• Chew on cold teething ring or on a piece of cold wet cloth.

• Give a gentle but firm rub on the gum.

• Rub the gums with a little lemon juice.

• Apply diluted clove oil with a cotton wick on the gum; dilute 4 drops of clove oil with a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Clove

• oil is a natural anesthetic that relieves inflammation.

Note: In any case the baby should not be allowed to bite on any hard object as this could damage the gums.
     
It is a common misconception that teething is the cause for high fevers but it actually isn't. It is true that some babies are affected by fever and diarrhoea during teething but then these problems are not associated with teething.

Care to be taken to prevent teeth decay:

1. Just like adults, baby's teeth are prone to decay. Thanks to sugary food & drinks.
2. Don't let your baby go to bed with milk or juice. Drink plain water instead.
3. Remember to clean the teeth carefully & patiently. A good time will be when the baby is in a happy mood. Use water & moist a cotton wick, gauze or a piece of soft cotton cloth to do the job. Always keep their teeth clean.
4. When the baby reaches 3 years old, it is a good time for the child to brush on his/her own - simply by watching you do it! Get one of those kiddy toothbrushes with soft bristles. Hard bristles can damage gums & teeth.
5. Since small children love to swallow "tasty" toothpaste, choose a toothpaste that is free from saccharin, artificial flavors, sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) & fluoride (use just a little dab).
6. Calcium is needed to grow strong teeth & it can be obtained from cerals, milk, fruits, vegetables & meat.
7. When adult teeth is properly taken care of, it can last a lifetime! So it is never too early to teach your child to cherish their teeth.