Soothe Your Teething Baby: Tried and Tested Baby Teething Remedies That Work

As your baby grows, it will go through several developmental milestones, including the emergence of its first teeth. While this is an exciting time for parents, it can also be challenging, as teething can cause discomfort and irritability in babies.

Teething is the process of a baby’s teeth breaking through the gums, which can cause swelling, tenderness, and pain.

This article will provide an overview of teething symptoms and the importance of finding safe and effective remedies to ease your baby’s discomfort.

Whether you choose natural remedies, over-the-counter remedies, or teething toys, we will help you choose the best options for your baby’s unique needs.

By the end of this article, you will better understand how to care for your baby during this challenging but important phase of their development.

Natural Teething Remedies

There are various safe and effective options if you’re looking for natural remedies to ease your baby’s teething pain. Natural remedies can be a great alternative to over-the-counter medications, which can sometimes have unwanted side effects. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular natural teething remedies:

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe your baby’s swollen and tender gums. You can make a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool to room temperature before giving it to your baby. You can also use a chamomile tea bag as a compress by dipping it in cool water and placing it on your baby’s gums.

Cold foods and Drinks

Cold foods and drinks can help to numb your baby’s gums and reduce inflammation. You can offer your baby chilled foods like pureed fruits and vegetables or cool drinks like water or breast milk. You can also try freezing a washcloth and letting your baby chew on it for relief.

Essential Oils

Some essential oils, such as clove and lavender, have natural pain-relieving properties and can alleviate teething discomfort. However, it’s important to note that essential oils should always be diluted with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil before use and should never be applied directly to your baby’s skin.

Amber Teething Necklaces

Amber teething necklaces are a popular natural remedy that releases succinic acid, which can help reduce inflammation and pain. However, it is important to note that no scientific evidence supports the effectiveness of amber teething necklaces, and they can pose a choking hazard if they break. (Read our article on Best Amber Teething Necklaces)

When using natural teething remedies, it’s important to continuously monitor your baby closely and discontinue use if there are any signs of an adverse reaction. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to consult your pediatrician before trying new remedies.

Over-the-Counter Teething Remedies

If natural remedies are not effective or if you prefer a more medicinal approach, there are a variety of over-the-counter teething remedies that you can try. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular options:

Teething Gels and Tablets

Teething gels and tablets are topical analgesics that can be applied directly to your baby’s gums to provide relief. They typically contain benzocaine, lidocaine, or another numbing agent. Using teething gels and tablets sparingly and only as directed is important, as overuse can cause unwanted side effects.

Teething powders

Teething powders are another popular over-the-counter remedy to alleviate teething discomfort. They typically contain natural ingredients like chamomile or belladonna, which can help to soothe your baby’s gums. However, it’s important to note that there have been safety concerns surrounding some teething powders, and they should always be used in moderation and only as directed.

When using over-the-counter teething remedies, it’s important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consult with your pediatrician before trying new remedies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your baby.

Teething Toys

Teething toys can be a great way to relieve your baby from teething pain while promoting healthy oral development. There are a variety of teething toys available, and each type offers its unique benefits. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular teething toy options:

Teething Rings

Teething rings are one of the most popular types of teething toys. They are typically made of rubber or silicone and come in various shapes and textures. Teething rings can be chilled in the refrigerator before use, which can help to numb your baby’s gums and reduce inflammation.

Teething Pacifiers

Teething pacifiers are another popular teething toy option. They are similar to regular pacifiers but have added textures and bumps to relieve teething babies. Teething pacifiers can also be chilled in the refrigerator before use for added relief.

Natural Teething Toys

Natural teething toys, such as wooden teethers or those made from natural rubber, are a great option for parents who prefer more natural materials. They are typically free from chemicals and synthetic materials, making them a safe and eco-friendly choice for your baby.

When choosing teething toys, looking for age-appropriate and safe ones for your baby to use is important. Avoid teething toys with small parts that could pose a choking hazard, and always monitor your baby closely during use. Additionally, be sure to clean teething toys regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

Tooth Care During Teething

During the teething phase, it’s important to maintain good dental hygiene to prevent tooth decay and other oral health issues. Here are some tips for caring for your baby’s teeth and gums during the teething phase:

Cleaning Baby’s Teeth and Gums

Keeping the baby’s gums clean is crucial before your baby’s teeth start emerging. You can gently wipe their gums after feedings using a soft, damp cloth or gauze. Once their teeth appear, you can use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to clean them twice daily. Be sure to use toothpaste that is specifically designed for babies and does not contain fluoride.

Brushing Baby’s Teeth

As your baby’s teeth continue to emerge, it’s important to continue brushing them twice a day. Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, and brush in circular motions along the gum line. Make sure to brush all surfaces of their teeth, including the fronts, backs, and tops. Encourage your baby to spit out the toothpaste after brushing, but don’t rinse their mouth with water.

Taking good care of your baby’s teeth and gums during teething can help prevent dental issues later. Additionally, regular dental check-ups with a pediatric dentist can help to ensure that your baby’s teeth are developing properly and identify any potential issues early on.

Complications and When to Seek Medical Advice

While teething is normal and natural, medical complications can sometimes accompany it. Here’s an overview of some of the potential complications that can arise during the teething phase:

Fever and Ear Infections

Fever and ear infections Teething can sometimes cause a low-grade fever, but if your baby’s fever rises above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, it could be a sign of an infection.

Teething can also lead to ear infections, as the inflammation in the gums can travel to the ears. Signs of an ear infection include pulling or rubbing at the ears, fussiness, and a high fever. If you suspect your baby has an ear infection or their fever is over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, seeking medical attention is important.

Importance of Seeking Medical Advice

If your baby is experiencing severe teething pain, excessive drooling, or other symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting, it’s important to consult your pediatrician.

Additionally, if you notice any signs of infection, like a high fever, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Your pediatrician can help identify potential complications and guide you on the best course of treatment.

By staying vigilant and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can help to ensure that your baby’s teething phase is as comfortable and healthy as possible.

Safety Precautions for Teething Remedies and Toys

When using teething remedies and toys, it’s important to prioritize safety to protect your baby from potential hazards. Here are some guidelines for choosing safe and appropriate products and using them safely:

Guidelines for Choosing Safe and Appropriate Products

Consider age-appropriate products made from safe, non-toxic materials when choosing teething remedies and toys. Avoid products containing small parts or loose strings that could pose a choking hazard, and always choose products tested and approved by safety organizations like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Importance of Monitoring Baby During Use

Even with safe and appropriate products, it’s important to continuously monitor your baby closely during use to prevent potential hazards.

For example, inspect teething toys regularly for signs of wear and tear or damage, and replace them if necessary. Additionally, never leave your baby unattended while they are using teething remedies or toys.

By responsibly prioritizing safety and using teething remedies and toys, you can help ensure your baby’s teething phase is as safe and comfortable as possible.

Conclusion

Teething can be a challenging time for both parents and babies. Still, with the proper remedies and care, you can help to alleviate your baby’s discomfort and promote healthy oral development.

In this article, we’ve explored a variety of natural and over-the-counter teething remedies, teething toys, and tooth care tips.

It’s important always to prioritize safety when using teething remedies and toys and to monitor your baby closely during use to prevent potential hazards.

If your baby experiences severe teething pain or shows signs of infection, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

With these tips and guidelines in mind, you can help to make your baby’s teething phase as comfortable and healthy as possible. Always consult your pediatrician before trying new remedies, and prioritize safety and monitoring throughout the teething process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)