How to Relieve Your Baby's Discomfort from Teething

Teething can be a tough time for both babies and parents. It’s typically characterized by discomfort, fussiness, and disrupted sleep. Understanding how to alleviate these symptoms can make this developmental stage more manageable. In this article, we will explore various ways to relieve your baby’s discomfort from teething.

Learn how to relieve your baby’s discomfort from teething with our comprehensive guide. Discover safe methods, including using cold objects and pressure, as well as things to avoid during this challenging stage of your baby’s development.

What is Teething?

Teething is a normal part of your baby’s developmental process. The first tooth usually appears when your baby is between six and twelve months old. During this period, your baby’s teeth will start pushing through the gums, which can cause discomfort and fussiness.

Symptoms of Teething

Typical teething symptoms can include:

• Drooling
• Irritability or fussiness
• Swollen, tender gums
• Chewing on everything
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of appetite

Your baby may exhibit some or all these symptoms. Each child’s teething experience is unique.

How to Relieve Teething Pain

Now that we understand what teething is and its symptoms let’s move to ways you can help alleviate your baby’s discomfort.

Cold Objects

Using cold objects is an effective method to help numb your baby’s gums and reduce inflammation.

• Frozen or chilled teething rings: These are designed for teething babies and can provide great relief. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for chilling the ring. Never freeze them as they can become too hard and potentially harm your baby’s gums.
• Chilled pacifiers: A cooled pacifier can be soothing. However, never tie the pacifier around your baby’s neck or to their crib.

Pressure

Applying gentle pressure on your baby’s gums can help to relieve the discomfort.

• Clean fingers: Use a clean finger or knuckle to rub your baby’s gums gently.
• Teething toys: These are soft enough for your baby to bite down on, and the pressure from biting can relieve the pain.

Over-the-counter remedies

There are several over-the-counter products you can use. Always consult with your healthcare provider before using any medication.

• Teething gels: These can be applied directly to your baby’s gums to numb the pain.
• Homeopathic remedies: There are various homeopathic remedies available that are claimed to help with teething pain. However, their effectiveness varies, and not all products are safe. Always discuss these options with your healthcare provider first.

Things to Avoid

While trying to help your baby through teething, there are a few things you should avoid:

• Avoid teething necklaces: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against the use of amber teething necklaces due to choking hazards.
• Avoid numbing agents containing benzocaine: The FDA advises against using over-the-counter products containing benzocaine for children under two. They can cause a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia.

Consult with Your Pediatrician

If your baby seems particularly uncomfortable or their symptoms are causing you concern, it’s always best to consult with your pediatrician. They may recommend appropriate over-the-counter medications or identify if there’s something more than teething happening.

Teething can be a challenging stage for both babies and parents. However, by using safe and effective methods to relieve discomfort, you can help your baby navigate this period more comfortably. Remember, every child is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Keep trying different methods and always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Q1: At what age does teething typically start?

A1: Teething usually begins when a baby is between six and twelve months old.

Q2: What are the common symptoms of teething?

A2: Symptoms can include drooling, irritability or fussiness, swollen tender gums, chewing on everything, difficulty sleeping, and loss of appetite.

Q3: How can cold objects help relieve teething discomfort?

A3: Cold objects can help numb the baby’s gums and reduce inflammation. This can be achieved by using frozen or chilled teething rings and chilled pacifiers. Remember, never freeze the rings as they can become too hard and potentially harm the baby’s gums.

Q4: Can I apply pressure on my baby’s gums to relieve discomfort?

A4: Yes, gentle pressure on the baby’s gums can help relieve the discomfort. You can use a clean finger or knuckle to gently rub your baby’s gums or offer them teething toys to bite down on.

Q5: Are there any over-the-counter remedies for teething discomfort?

A5: Yes, there are several over-the-counter products such as teething gels which can numb the pain. However, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before using any medication.

Q6: What should I avoid while my baby is teething?

A6: Avoid using teething necklaces because of the risk of choking. Also, avoid numbing agents containing benzocaine as they can cause a serious condition called methemoglobinemia.

Q7: What if my baby is particularly uncomfortable during teething?

A7: If your baby seems particularly uncomfortable or their symptoms are causing concern, it’s always best to consult with your pediatrician. They may recommend appropriate over-the-counter medications or identify if there’s something more than teething happening.