Teething can be a challenging time. For both parent and child.
At best, it often comes with discomfort and irritability.
But at worst, it can be painful and distressing.
Teething happens to all babies as part of their growing up journey. Taking place between 6 months of age all the way till 3 years old.
Some babies breeze through their teething, but others may have some trouble.
While every baby’s experience with teething is unique, there are several strategies you can try to help soothe your baby’s pain during this phase.
7 Ways to Help Your Baby Deal with Teething
Chew Toys or Teethers
There are many kinds of toys that can help with your baby’s teething pain.
These are called teething toys or chew toys for your baby to bite on as a form of relief.
There are plenty of safe and age-appropriate teething toys.
Opt for silicone or rubber teethers, if you can. These can be chilled in the refrigerator, providing an even more effective numbing relief for the gums.
Cold Compress
Cold can help alleviate teething discomfort for babies.
One trick other than chilling chew toys as mentioned above, is to give your baby a clean, damp washcloth that has been chilled in the refrigerator.
Make sure it’s not too cold to avoid causing harm.
You can also use ice-packs that are suited for babies. Lay the cold compress on their jaw or where their teeth hurts.
Gentle Gum Massage
Use a clean finger to gently massage your baby’s gums.
This can help soothe the pain and provide a bit of distraction.
There are many types of gum massaging tools.
There are manual silicone finger brushes that you can use as well as electronic ones.
A word of warning, avoid using clove oil for teething relief. It is only safe for adults and older children. Not for babies and toddlers.
Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding
If your baby is still breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, the sucking motion can provide comfort.
You can also offer a chilled teething ring before or after a feeding.
If your baby is already full or has had their meal, a pacifier will also do.
It’s safe to let your baby soothe themselves to sleep with a pacifier.
As long as they are older than 3 weeks and you’ve established a good breastfeeding routine.
Offer Distractions
Teething can often by uncomfortable but not painful enough to warrant tantrums.
But your baby’s first instinct when they experience teething discomfort may always be to cry or scream.
So, during these fussy moments, distract your baby.
You can use colourful toys or activities to take their mind off the discomfort.
Sometimes, a change of scenery or playtime can also be effective. Consider taking them outside for a walk.
Cool Treats and Things
Cold foods are amazing for teething.
It soothes pain and inflammation and even has a sort of numbing effect. Bringing much needed relief.
If your baby is old enough for solid foods, you can offer cold foods such as yoghurt or pureed fruits.
Ice-cream and popsicles are good too if your baby enjoys them.
The cool temperature of cold treats can help soothe their aching gums.
Dress Comfortably
Sometimes teething can cause a small rise in body temperature. But this isn’t enough to be called a fever.
Whatever the case, your baby can benefit from being dressed in cool, breathable, comfortable clothes. If not to help them deal with the heat, then with the discomfort.
Pain can often be aggravated by uncomfortable clothing.
Consult a Paediatrician
Sometimes no matter what you do, your baby will still experience painful teething.
This can cause distress for everyone involved.
If your baby seems to be in significant pain or if you have concerns about their teething, consult with your paediatrician.
They can provide guidance and ensure there are no underlying issues.
Let Your Baby Teeth in Peace
Teething happens to all babies. And as parents, we should remember to keep calm.
Remember that each baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
It may take some trial and error to find the most effective soothing methods for your baby.
But don’t worry, your child will eventually get used to the teething phase.
They’ll soon have a complete set of chompers before you even know it.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!