Pain during teething in infants

Pain during teething in infants

Teething is one of the first significant and, at the same time, worrisome stages in an infant's development. The emergence of the first tooth is a joy for parents, but the period leading up to it often comes with discomfort, tears, and sleepless nights.

Mechanism of pain during teething

Pain arises from the pressure of the growing tooth on the sensitive gum tissues. This causes local inflammation, swelling, redness, and increased sensitivity. The child feels a constant nagging discomfort that intensifies at night.

Symptoms of teething

In addition to irritability and poor sleep, you may notice:

• Excessive drooling.
• Desire to chew everything.
• Refusal to eat: Poor appetite due to pain while sucking.
• Mild temperature increase: Subfebrile temperature (up to 38.0°C).

It is important not to attribute symptoms such as high fever or diarrhea to the teeth — most likely, it is a coincidence with a viral infection. For care of the first teeth, read the article "Care for the first teeth".