Well, it was bound to happen and thankful parents are a great little secret society. Baby George has begun to "teeth" and for our single friends out there, imagine your first exposure to dental pain as a new person. The following is from BabyWeekly details Baby George's new state of being to a "T" for tooth as you see me working with BG to apply the cold washcloth:

A baby’s first tooth is an exciting milestone for his or her parents, but a potentially painful right of passage for the little teether. The symptoms and severity of pain associated with teething can vary as greatly as the age at which it occurs. Some babies become very fussy and irritable while others have no problems at all; you may not even know your baby has cut a tooth until she flashes you a toothy grin. (Note- Baby George is one moment happy and laughing and the next in sharp pain)

Babies usually begin teething between five and seven months of age, but don't be alarmed if your baby’s gums are still toothless at her first birthday, or she is cutting one as young as three months old – all of the above are perfectly normal. (Note- Baby George is 4.5 months)

Excessive drooling is a one of the most common signs that a baby has entered the teething stage, and this extra saliva can cause the skin around the mouth to become dry and chapped and even break out in a rash. (Note- The first part is true so far for Baby George)

Other symptoms of teething include:

• Chewing and biting - Your baby may chew and bite down on anything she can get her mouth around. The counter pressure from biting on something helps relieve the pressure from the erupting tooth. Unfortunately, your baby may mistake your nipple for a teething ring during feedings. Try not to overreact if this happens – calmly but firmly tell your baby no, remove your nipple from her mouth, and wait a few minutes before trying to nurse again. When you take the source of food away, your baby will quickly learn not to bite the nipple that feeds her.

• Cheek rubbing and ear pulling - Pain in the gums may extend to the ears and cheeks, especially when the back molars begin coming in, so you may see your baby rubbing her cheeks or pulling at her ears. However, if your baby is showing other signs of an ear infection, call your pediatrician. (Note- A much bigger hassle and always a worry that this is not teething and something worse. Hence, the reason for this post is also for Mom and Dad to re-read each time we are worried this is a ear ache)

• Night waking – Your baby may be more restless and wake more often during the night when she is in pain.

To help comfort your teething baby, try rubbing her gums with your clean index finger (if she will let you), or give her a chilled teething ring. Don't give your child ice cubes to suck on; they are a choking hazard; instead, freeze or refrigerate a wet washcloth and let her chew on that. (Note- See Picture)