Teething is a natural physiological process of human development that begins around the age of six months and continues until the age of three years. It is a process that involves the eruption of teeth through the gums in the infant’s mouth. One of the most critical periods in teething is the 18-month teething stage, which has been the focus of various studies that attempt to determine the causes and the best management practices.
The first teeth to appear are usually the two lower central incisors, followed by the upper central incisors, the lateral incisors, the first molars, the canines, and finally, the second molars. This process can be painful and uncomfortable for the infant, and caregivers and parents may find it challenging to manage the baby’s symptoms.
The 18-month teething stage is a process that is associated with the eruption of molars in the baby’s mouth. According to various studies, this process can be painful and cause symptoms such as drooling, ear pulling, irritability, crying, and difficulty sleeping. The 18-month teething stage is thought to be more challenging than other teething stages because of the size of the molars, which are larger and more challenging to erupt than other teeth. Additionally, the molars are located deeper in the gums than other teeth, making the process more painful.
The exact causes of the 18-month teething stage are not clear, and different theories have been proposed to explain this phenomenon. One of the most popular theories is that the eruption of molars is linked to the infant’s growth and development. According to this theory, the baby’s body produces hormones that stimulate the growth of the jaw and teeth, leading to the eruption of the molars. Another theory suggests that the eruption of molars is linked to the infant’s diet. According to this theory, the baby’s diet, which includes solid foods, leads to the production of acids that cause the breakdown of tissues in the gums, leading to the eruption of the molars.
To manage the symptoms associated with the 18-month teething stage, various management practices have been recommended. These practices aim to reduce pain and discomfort and improve the baby’s quality of life. One of the most commonly recommended practices is the use of teething toys. These toys are designed to provide a safe and comfortable surface for the baby to chew on, reducing the pain and discomfort associated with teething. Another practice that has been recommended is the use of natural remedies such as chamomile tea or cold washcloth. These remedies provide a temporary relief of pain, helping the baby to cope with the teething process.
In conclusion, the 18-month teething stage is a natural process of human development that can be painful and challenging for infants and caregivers alike. Although the exact causes of this stage are not clear, different theories have been proposed to explain the phenomenon. To manage the associated symptoms, various management practices such as the use of teething toys and natural remedies have been recommended. Given the critical nature of this stage in a baby’s development, it is crucial for caregivers and parents to be informed and proactive in managing the associated symptoms, thus ensuring the infant’s wellness and quality of life.
