Ah, teething. It is one of those baby milestones that every parent experiences, but no one warns you just how tough it can be! As your little one’s first set of teeth start to make their way through the gums, you might notice changes in their behavior — drooling, irritability, sleepless nights and lots of gnawing. But there is no need to worry, you are not alone in this!
Teething is tough, but it is temporary, and there are plenty of ways to help your baby feel a little more comfortable during this phase. Here is a guide to help you navigate the teething adventure.
Understanding the Teething Process
Before we dive into tips and tricks, we will start with a quick rundown of what is happening during teething. Babies are born with a full set of teeth underneath their gums, but these teeth do not start emerging until around six months of age. It is often the first set of molars that come in, followed by the upper and lower front teeth.
Every baby is different, and teething can happen earlier or later than the typical six-month window. Some babies might have no symptoms, while others experience the full teething circus — drooling, discomfort and a lot of fussiness. The good news is, it is totally normal, and they will eventually grow out of it.
Signs Your Baby is Teething
You have probably already noticed a few of these signs if your baby is teething. But here is a checklist of common symptoms to watch for:
✓ Excessive drooling – If your baby’s chin seems like it is constantly wet, teething could be the culprit.
✓ Gnawing and chewing – Babies often chew on anything they can get their hands on while they are teething.
✓ Irritability and fussiness – Teething can make your baby feel uncomfortable, and that discomfort can translate into mood swings.
✓ Sleepless nights – The pain and discomfort can make it hard for your baby to sleep through the night.
✓ Swollen or tender gums – You might notice that your baby’s gums are red, swollen or tender to the touch.
✓ Changes in appetite – Some babies become more finicky with their food during teething because of gum discomfort.
If you notice these signs, it is time to start thinking about how you can help soothe your little one!
Tips to Soothe a Teething Baby
1. Cool things down
Cold is your best friend when it comes to soothing sore gums. The cold helps numb the discomfort which can give your baby some relief. You can use the following:
- Chill teething toys: There are plenty of safe teething toys that can be cooled down in the fridge (never freeze them, as they could break or become too hard).
- Cold washcloth: A soft, clean washcloth dipped in cold water and handed to your baby to chew on can be soothing.
- Chilled food (for older babies): If your baby is eating solids, you can offer cold, soft food like applesauce or yogurt to give them a cool treat.
Just remember to always keep an eye on your baby while they are using any cold items, and never leave them unattended
2. Gentle gum massage
Sometimes, nothing beats the power of your own hands. You can use your clean finger to gently massage your baby’s gums. The pressure from your finger can help relieve some of the discomfort. Make sure your hands are clean before you attempt this and be gentle!
3. Teething rings and toys
Teething rings are specifically designed to help babies during these times. Some are filled with a gel that you can chill in the refrigerator, while others are made of natural rubber or silicone. They offer a safe and effective way for your baby to gnaw and relieve some pressure from their gums.
4. Pain relief (when necessary)
If your baby is in a lot of discomfort, you may want to consult with your pediatrician about pain relief options. Over-the-counter medications like infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain. Make sure to follow the doctor’s advice for dosage and timing.
5. Keep them busy
Distractions are your friend during teething. Keep your baby occupied with toys, books and activities that do not focus on their gums. Sometimes, a change of scenery or a little extra playtime can take their mind off the discomfort.
What to Avoid During Teething
There are a few things you should steer clear of when dealing with teething:
- Teething necklaces: While they are marketed as a soothing option, teething necklaces present a choking hazard and are not recommended by pediatricians.
- Frozen items: Never freeze teething rings or toys. Extremely cold objects can hurt a baby’s sensitive gums.
- Over-the-counter teething gels: Some gels can be harmful and should be avoided.
It is always better to choose options that are proven safe and recommended by your baby’s healthcare provider.
Hang In There, You Got This!
Teething is one of those phases in your life that feels both never-ending and totally worth it once those first teeth finally emerge. It is tough, no doubt. But with the right tools and a little patience, you can help your baby find relief.
Remember, every baby is different, and while some breeze through teething, others need a little more TLC. Do not hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or dentist if you are feeling uncertain or need more advice. They will have your back, and before you know it, those first teeth will be shining through, and you will have conquered yet another parenting milestone.
Hang in there and take it one teething day at a time. You are doing great!