Teething is the process by which an infant‘s first teeth (the deciduous teeth, often called “baby teeth” or “milk teeth”) appear by emerging through the gums, typically arriving in pairs. Teething is a normal process that some infants go through and it generally starts when they are between 6 and 12 months old.

Restlessness, trouble getting to sleep and problematic night awakenings are extremely common in children and infants (affecting 20-30% of young children)¹, and have a sig­nificant impact on the quality of life of both the child and the caregiver².

Although deemed as ‘normal’, teething may be accompanied by a fever, irritability, diarrhoea and poor sleep; amongst other things.

Restlessness in babies can be caused by various factors such as overstimulation of a baby’s senses, teething, tiredness, colic and underlying infections; amongst other things.

Baby teeth sometimes emerge with no pain or discomfort at all. At other times, you may notice the following in you little one³:

• General irritability.
• Disturbed sleep.
• Gum inflammation.
• Drooling.
• Loss of appetite.
• Diarrhoea.
• Perioral rash.
• Intra-oral ulcers.
• Increase in body temperature.
• Increased biting.
• Gum rubbing.
• Sucking.
• Wakefulness.
• Ear rubbing.

Restlessness in babies is generally characterized by an unwillingness or inability to:

• Rest or relax.
• Remain still.
• Be quiet and calm.
• Fall asleep and remain asleep.

Teething does not generally require an appointment to see the healthcare professional (HCP). However, if teething is accompanied by a high temperature that persists without any apparent reason, or if your baby has persistent diarrhoea, it is best to see a HCP as soon as possible. They will examine your child to determine whether these issues are related to another condition. If necessary, they will prescribe appropriate medication.

Restlessness is a common occurrence in babies, but when accompanied by complications such as incessant fever, abnormal crying, an underlying infection or other symptoms that are worrisome to the caregiver/parent, it is best to see a HCP as soon as possible. They will examine your child to determine whether these issues are related to another condition. If necessary, they will prescribe appropriate medication.

A restless and/or teething baby can give rise to an emotionally unstable environment for you and your little one. Babies are incapable of self-soothing and rely solely on their caregiver/parent for that support. This additional load may seem insurmountable to an already emotionally and physically fatigued person. Allowing one’s emotions to get the better of the situation can be detrimental. Do not be scared to ask for help or support from outside sources.

Non-drug measures:

• Every baby can use some good cuddle time when they are having a hard time coping with restlessness and/or teething. One can also try bathing, singing, playing quiet music and/or reading. The extra time spent with your little one can help alleviate their pain by providing feelings of being comforted and reassured.
• Teething biscuits, rings and/or gels.
• Ice.
• Pressure.
• Baltic amber jewellery.

OTC treatment and prescribed medication:

• Antipyretic/analgesic drugs are among the most commonly used drugs in children, and their consumption is increasing⁸. The main agents employed for this in conventional medicine are paracetamol and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), e.g., ibuprofen. Paracetamol and NSAIDs have now replaced aspirin use in children due to the fear of Reyes syndrome^8,9. However, their use is controversial⁸, firstly because of the possibility of unwanted side effects and secondly because of the view that fever can fulfil an important function in the body by conditioning and stimulating the immune system – provided that a tolerable range is not exceeded¹⁰.
• Prescribed antibiotics if there is an underlying secondary bacterial infection.

Complementary treatment:

• Viburcol^®N suppositories.
• Chamomile and/or clove teas or products.
• Natura products.
• Feelgood Health products.
• Perfectly Healthy products.