6 Teething Symptoms I Never Expected
Elvie has seemed a little out of sorts lately. She's still been her happy self, but she's just been a little bit off. I knew that she was working on cutting some teeth, but I didn't realize how many things that were going on were related to teething. Before, we had drool and a tiny bit of fussiness that was relieved by teething tablets or ibuprofen. Then up a tooth would pop, and she was done. This time, though, it turns out she is cutting a molar, and the symptoms are different.
In addition to a quick check-in with our pediatrician, I've been consulting with other moms, and it turns out that none of the symptoms she's experiencing are unusual for toddlers cutting a molar. Sure enough, a little corner of a molar popped up this afternoon. Here are the six symptoms she's had that turned out to be tooth-related. I can't wait to have that tooth all the way in so she can start feeling better. If your little sweetheart is experiencing these same things, we can commiserate.
1. More Restless at Night!
Elvie had been a bit restless before when she was teething, but it was always relieved by a bit of medication or a little sip of a bottle. This time not much seems to help other than snuggling her and helping her get back to sleep.
Related: 12 healthy & yummy teething biscuit recipes
2. More Clingy During the Day
My lap has been occupied by Elvie for most of the day, every day for a week.
3. Wants the Bottle More
Elvie was tapering off on her bottle usage and primarily using a sippy cup during the day, but she suddenly started wanting the bottle during the day again and with greater frequency. Nothing else I offered would do.
4. Longer Naps That Start Earlier
Since we transitioned to one nap, I have been able to push her naptime back to after noon. This week she hasn't made it past 11:30 without needing a nap ASAP. She is also consistently sleeping longer than two hours, even when we've not had a busy morning.
5. More Dirty Diapers
The frequency of diaper changes has increased, and it is rare to change a diaper that is only wet. Many nights she has a dirty diaper in the middle of the night as well, which had never happened before.
6. Severe Diaper Rash
Moisture barriers, frequent diaper changes, and myriad medicated creams won't touch this rash. I feel so bad for her every time I change her diaper. I can't wait for this tooth to make its full appearance so she can be more comfortable!
- By Mary McBride
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