3 Tips For When Your Child Is Getting Their Six-Year Molars
Having a teething child is never fun. As a parent, you may think that your problematic teething days are behind you once your child is in school. However, at around age 6, your child will begin cutting new teeth - the mandibular first molars, or the six-year molars. While some children will not notice these new teeth coming in very much, others experience pain and swelling because of it. Here are three tips for when your child is getting their six-year molars.
1. Understand that a little swelling is normal, but a lot of swelling could be indicative of a major problem.
One thing that a lot of parents are mistaken about when it comes to getting six-year molars is how much swelling of the face is normal with it. It is normal for a child cutting their new molars to have slightly swollen glands, but if their cheeks and other facial areas are swollen, that is not normal at all. It could actually be a sign of an infection or other, more serious health problem.
It is a good idea to take your child in to see their dentist, or even their doctor, if you notice any amount of facial swelling along with their mouth pain. It is better to get any possible infection taken care of as soon as possible.
2. It is fine for you to give your child pain reliever for their teething pain.
Giving children over-the counter (OTC) pain reliever has come under fire in the past couple of decades. Some parents absolutely refuse to give their children any type of OTC pain reliever. The truth is, as long as you buy the right pain reliever formula (i.e. for children and not for adults) and use it the way the directions tell you to, it is safe for you to give your child OTC pain reliever.
If you are concerned about giving your child OTC pain reliever too often during the day, you can alternate between giving a dose of OTC pain reliever and using a topical anesthetic gel on the gum where the tooth is erupting.
3. Make sure they are eating and drinking enough.
Whenever there is a lot of teething pain, your child may not want to eat or drink much at all. However, you need to try to get them to eat and drink as often as you can. If eating solid foods hurts your child too much, you can try fixing them soups, yogurt, pudding, or even baby food. Also, they need to be drinking plenty of water so they can stay hydrated. They will never get to feeling better if they're dehydrated and weak from not eating anything at all.
To learn more about dental care for children, visit a website such as http://www.childrensdent.com.