First Central Incisor

No this is not a train route through Denver. It’s what has started to poke through Sam’s upper gums, his first top tooth. I noticed it starting to come through on Saturday, but it didn’t seem to bother him.

But (Help Us) it totally bothered him last night. He was not interested in sleeping at all until he practically fell asleep mid cry. I was so worried that he would wake up multiple times screaming, but he slept until he wet through his diaper, around 2am. By 4am, he was up for the day — Lucky me!!!

Since he wasn’t very upset this weekend I was hoping that he would not have problems with this tooth so I wasn’t prepared with remedies (cold teether and a semi-frozen wash cloth). I will make sure that they are always on hand now.

Here are some tips that I found to keep in mind when Sam is teething:
• Wipe your baby's face often with a cloth to remove the drool and prevent rashes from developing.
• Give your baby something to chew on. Make sure it's big enough so that it can't be swallowed and that it can't break into small pieces. A wet washcloth placed in the freezer for 30 minutes makes a handy teething aid — just be sure to wash it after each use. Rubber teething rings are also good, but avoid ones with liquid inside because they may break or leak. If you use a teething ring, be sure to take it out of the freezer before it becomes rock hard — you don't want to bruise those already swollen gums!
• Cold food has also been found to be helpful by some parents. Chilled applesauce, yogurt and pureed peaches may be more appealing to your baby and also more nutritious than a chilled teething ring.
• Rub your baby's gums with a clean finger.
• If your baby seems irritable, acetaminophen may help — but always consult your doctor first. Never place an aspirin against the tooth, and don't rub alcohol on your baby's gums.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), after your child's first tooth appears, but no later than the first birthday, begin regular dental check-ups for “smile” insurance.

I better start doing research on a pediatric dentist in my area.