Do Babies Cry Inconsolably When Teething?

About four to seven months after birth, babies may start experiencing the eruption of new teeth, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Your little one may have sore and swollen gums, though other symptoms can vary from child to child. Knowing what to expect when your baby is teething, as well as what you can do to help, may prevent him from having long bouts of fussing.

Teething rings can relieve gum soreness in babies. (Image: Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images)

Typical Teething Symptoms

While some babies may cry inconsolably during teething, most experience mild symptoms, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. A low-grade fever below 101 degrees Fahrenheit, occasional crying, more-frequent drooling, eagerness to chew or bite objects and pain in the gums are common symptoms of teething babies. Some parents may only realize that their babies are teething when they begin to drool more than usual. More severe symptoms could be an indication that your baby is sick, in addition to teething. Take him to a pediatrician if you suspect that his symptoms are not typical for teething.

Unusual Teething Symptoms

More severe teething symptoms happen occasionally. Parents and babies alike may find themselves losing sleep because of frequent crying. If your baby also has more severe symptoms like a high fever, diarrhea or vomiting, she may be crying inconsolably because she is sick. Her pediatrician can offer you a course of treatment to relieve her pain.

Relief

Parents do not have to sit idly by while their babies are in pain from teething. A clean teething ring, a chilled cloth or chilled foods can bring comfort to sore baby gums. Avoid giving your baby objects that are too small or objects that can break into pieces in the mouth. Parents should also not give a baby any frozen items, as these can cause pain and damage to the gums. Creams that are applied directly to the gums to relieve pain are quickly washed away and should be avoided, advises the American Academy of Pediatrics.

More Help

Some babies may continue to cry, despite your best efforts. Ask your pediatrician if your little one can have acetaminophen or ibuprofen if her crying does not subside. However, parents should not give their babies aspirin. It is also possible that babies may be crying due to irritation from drool. Wipe your baby's face frequently with a clean, dry cloth when you see her drooling.