Teething

Question 1

What are 5 symptoms of teething?

Answer 1

1. Excessive drooling
2. Chewing on fingers
3. Restlessness/irritability
4. Disturbed sleep/feeding patterns
5. Rubbing at cheeks

Question 2

Does teething require a counselling room?

Answer 2

No

Question 3

What 1 one red flag for referral with teething?

Answer 3

1. Blood

Question 4

Does teething have a PSA self-care card?

Answer 4

No

Question 5

What is the preferred treatment option for teething?

Answer 5

Paracetamol

Question 6

What are the directions for paracetamol in teething?

Answer 6

15mg/kg (to a maximum of 1g) every 4 to 6 hours when required. Maximum of FOUR doses (up to 4g) in 24 hours.

Question 7

What are the non-preferred options for teething and why?

Answer 7

1. AVOID all teething gels as there is a lack of evidence to support their use and increased potential for HARM/DEATH

Question 8

Is paracetamol safe in pregnancy?

Answer 8

Yes

Question 9

Is paracetamol safe in breastfeeding?

Answer 9

Yes

Question 10

What is the age range for paracetamol?

Answer 10

Safe in children over 1 month

Question 11

What are 4 pieces of non-pharmacological advice for teething?

Answer 11

1. Suggest teething ring, clean cloth or pacifier for gumming: Place in fridge for additional cooling effect.
2. Gentle massage of gums with fingers.
3. Cool fluids although avoid frozen foods or objects as may cause thermal damage
4. Teething biscuits in older children

Question 12

Describe the usual timeline of teething.

Answer 12

Infants first teeth usually erupt at around 4 months of age and finish teething by 2-3 years of age.