why my baby not eating anything just bcoz his new tooth arrived #asktheexpert

Question

Accepted Answer

It’s common for babies to have a reduced appetite or be less interested in eating when they are teething. Here’s why this might happen and what you can do:

### **1. **Discomfort and Pain:**
   - **Teething Pain:** New teeth coming in can cause gum discomfort and pain, making eating less appealing. The pressure and inflammation can make it difficult for your baby to chew or swallow.

### **2. **Changes in Eating Habits:**
   - **Temporary Decrease in Appetite:** It’s typical for babies to have a temporary decrease in appetite or change in eating habits during teething. They may prefer softer foods or refuse to eat altogether due to discomfort.

### **3. **Irritability:**
   - **General Discomfort:** Teething can make babies more irritable or fussy, which might affect their willingness to eat.

### **Ways to Help:**

1. ****Soothing Techniques:**
   - **Teething Toys:** Provide teething rings or toys that can be chilled in the refrigerator to soothe sore gums.
   - **Cold Foods:** Offer chilled purees or yogurt, which can be soothing on sore gums.

2. ****Comfort Measures:**
   - **Gum Massage:** Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger to alleviate discomfort.
   - **Pain Relief:** If necessary and recommended by your pediatrician, use teething gels or medications specifically designed for teething relief.

3. ****Offer Soft Foods:**
   - **Easier-to-Eat Foods:** Provide softer, easy-to-eat foods that don’t require much chewing, such as mashed fruits, yogurt, or pureed vegetables.

4. ****Regular Feeding Routine:**
   - **Keep Trying:** Maintain a regular feeding routine and offer food even if your baby is not very hungry. They might eat more when they’re feeling better.

5. ****Consult a Pediatrician:**
   - **Seek Advice:** If teething discomfort seems severe or persists for an extended period, consult your pediatrician. They can offer additional advice and ensure there are no other underlying issues.

Teething can be a challenging time, but with some patience and supportive measures, your baby’s appetite should return to normal as the discomfort decreases.