Teething can be a rough journey, both for you and your baby. Every baby is different, although, as a general rule, most babies start teething at around the 6-month mark. This can be an uncomfortable, even painful experience for your little one, resulting in irritability, disturbed sleeping patterns and loss of appetite. While seeing your baby in pain can be profoundly upsetting, fortunately, there are multiple ways to soothe your little one and alleviate some discomfort.
While each baby varies considerably, there are multiple signs that indicate your baby may be teething. Your baby may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
We all need a little TLC from our loved ones when we’re experiencing stress and discomfort. The best thing you can do as a caregiver is provide your distressed baby with plenty of love and attention. The affectionate bond between parent and baby is profoundly healing, and the magic of human contact cannot be overstated. A simple cuddle can be wonderfully effective in alleviating the discomfort of mild teething pain; however, depending on the severity of the pain, your baby may require additional teething remedies.
Massaging your baby’s sore, swollen gums with a clean finger can be a simple and effective method of easing teething pain. This method is handy when you may not have access to teething toys, and your baby is intent on chewing everything in sight in an attempt to relieve their discomfort. Simply rub your finger against the affected gum area, applying gentle pressure, which will counteract the pressure from the incoming tooth.
A cold, wet flannel can be an excellent teething toy for your baby. Take a clean flannel and submerge it in cold water until completely saturated. Wring out any excess water and allow your baby to suck, chew and gnaw on it. The added benefit of a cold flannel is that it instantly absorbs any excess drool. That said, never leave your baby unattended with a wet flannel, as it can be a choking/suffocation hazard.
Teething toys are arguably the most popular method of alleviating teething discomfort. Teething toys come in various shapes, sizes and baby-safe materials such as natural rubber and food-grade silicone. Some teething toys can be kept in the fridge, providing your baby with a soothing cold compress for their sore gums. Other designs can be easily clipped onto your yoyo stroller bar for constant easy access to pain relief. Remember, teething toys should never be frozen, as the flexible material often becomes too hard, potentially damaging your little one’s delicate gums.
A remedy for sore gums that is also a tasty, healthy snack? It’s a win-win situation! Particularly if painful teething has affected your baby’s appetite, giving them something cold to chew on is an excellent solution. If your baby has begun their weaning journey, consider chilling water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumber, watermelon, and pineapple cut into baby-safe batons. You could also give your baby a teething feeder filled with frozen berries, banana and mango.
Nobody enjoys seeing their baby in pain, and as such, sugar-free over-the-counter medication may be necessary. Mild pain-relieving medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be given to teething babies three months and older to relieve severe discomfort. Experts advise resorting to medication only once other methods have proved ineffective. Additionally, always ask your doctor or pharmacist for dosage advice.
Oral hygiene starts from day one; for instance, you can keep your baby’s mouth clean and healthy by gently wiping their gums with a clean washcloth or small piece of gauze. Once your baby cuts their first teeth, you can start brushing them with a very soft toothbrush and a small drop of baby-safe toothpaste. It is also advisable to schedule a dental appointment to ensure that everything is progressing smoothly. As a rule of thumb, take your little one to the dentist every six months - not only will this promote excellent oral hygiene, but it will help to instil comfort and confidence.