Teething can be no fun for toddlers as those first molars start to push their way through. Your toddler may well experience many of the same symptoms they had with their front teeth some months before. Some lucky children sprout their last batch of milk teeth without too much trouble, whilst for others it can be a bit of a trying time.

Toddler teething symptoms

• Sore, swollen gums
• Red, flushed cheeks
• Restlessness and disturbed nights
• Irritability or grumpiness
• A slightly raised temperature
• Rubbing the cheek or ear on the side the new tooth is coming through
• Poor appetite

Teething can make breastfeeding quite sore and uncomfortable for toddlers. This is because sucking increases the blood flow to the already swollen gums. However, some find feeding so comforting and familiar that it is the only thing that soothes them.

Similarly, children that suck their thumbs or use a dummy to get themselves off to sleep can find it hard to settle. This is likely to make them feel cross or upset that something which is usually a comfort has suddenly become a pain.  Find out more about thumb sucking and dummies here.

When should you be concerned?

As with younger babies, while teething can make your toddler feel quite miserable and cause some pain and discomfort, it should not make them physically ill. Some children may have a raised temperature, but if your child has a high temperature which cannot be reduced, or has a fever (over 39°C) it is best to see your doctor. Similarly, if your child has diarrhoea, a runny nose or a rash on the body it could be the result of a cold or virus. If you are worried for any reason seek medical advice.

What can you do to help?

There are various toddler teething products on the market, or you could try:

Chewing

You could try gently rubbing the gums, although some toddlers may be tempted to bite so you might prefer giving them a cool piece of raw carrot or cucumber straight from the fridge to gnaw on instead!

Teething rings

Cool things tend to feel quite soothing on sore, inflamed gums. A teething ring that has been in the fridge for a couple of hours might help. Your child probably has several teeth already now so perhaps avoid the liquid-filled teething rings, which can split and leak if chewed.

Soft, cool foods

Many children go off their food at this stage because eating can be quite uncomfortable. Try offering them soft, cool foods such as yoghurt or fruit puree, which might be easier to manage.

Anyone who has had toothache will know just how sore that persistent ache can be. It is much the same for a teething toddler. Those inflamed gums and aching jaws can be very sensitive. A lot of mums find that cold, windy weather adds to the discomfort, so if it is cold outside find a hat which covers the ears and keeps out the chills.