Understanding Baby Teething: What to Expect and How to Help
Teething is a natural process that all babies go through. It’s the time when their first teeth start to emerge, and it often happens between 6 and 12 months of age. There are different signs and symptoms that parents need to watch for during teething, and they can do a lot to help their babies through this process.
What to Expect During Teething
Teething signs and symptoms vary from baby to baby, and some babies may not even show any symptoms at all. However, here are some common symptoms of teething:
- Excessive drooling
- Irritability and fussiness
- Chewing and biting on everything
- Swollen and tender gums
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite
It’s important to keep in mind that teething symptoms can last for a few days or a few weeks, and they may come and go during this time. In addition, some babies may experience a low-grade fever during teething, but it’s usually nothing to worry about.
How to Help Your Baby During Teething
There are different things that parents can do to help their babies during teething:
- Give your baby something to chew on, such as a teething ring or a cool, damp washcloth.
- Mild pain relief medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be used if your baby is in discomfort, but it’s important to talk to your doctor first.
- Massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a teething ring.
- Offer your baby plenty of fluids, as teething can cause them to drool a lot.
- Soothe your baby with the cuddles and attention they need during this tough period.
It is also important that parents maintain good oral hygiene practices for their babies, even before the teething process begins. Wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding and before bedtime to help prevent bacteria build-up and ensure that the incoming teeth will be born in a healthy oral environment.
Your baby’s first teeth are an exciting milestone, but it can also be a challenging one. Understanding what to expect during this process and how to alleviate the discomfort can make the journey smoother for both you and your baby.
Tried and Tested: The Best Teething Products for Your Little One
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, but with the right products, you can ease your little one's discomfort and make the process a little easier. Here are our top picks for teething relief products that have been tried and tested by parents:
1. Munchkin Twisty Figure 8 Teether
This teething toy is a favorite among parents and babies alike. Its unique design allows for easy grasping, and the twisting motion provides a soothing sensation for sore gums. Plus, it's made of safe, non-toxic materials.
2. Sophie la Girafe
This classic teething toy has been a favorite for over 50 years. Made of natural rubber and painted with food-grade paint, Sophie is both safe and soothing. Its long legs and neck make it easy for babies to grasp and chew.
3. Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys
These teether keys are perfect for babies who like cold things to chew on. The gel-filled keys can be refrigerated for a cooling effect on sore gums. They're also textured to provide extra relief.
4. Wink Naturals Cool Gums Teething Gel
This natural teething gel provides fast-acting relief for teething pain. Made with natural ingredients like peppermint oil and chamomile extract, it's safe and effective. Plus, it comes in an easy-to-use pump bottle.
5. MAM Bite & Brush Teether
This teething toy not only provides relief for sore gums, but it also cleans and massages baby's teeth and gums. The soft bristles on the top of the toy are gentle on little ones' teeth, and the ergonomic design makes it easy for babies to hold.
No matter which teething product you choose, always closely supervise your baby while they're using it. And remember, teething is a normal part of development – with the right products, you can help your baby through this stage with ease.
Top Home Remedies for Soothing Baby's Sore Gums
Teething can be a painful experience for babies and parents. Luckily, there are some effective home remedies that can help soothe your little one's sore gums:
- Cold washcloth: Wet a clean washcloth and place it in the refrigerator or freezer. Once it's cold, give it to your baby to chew on. The cold temperature will help numb the pain and the texture of the washcloth will provide some relief.
- Frozen fruits and veggies: Cut up some fruits and veggies, such as bananas or carrots, and freeze them. The cold temperature and the pressure from chewing on them will help soothe your baby's gums. Just make sure they are cut into small enough pieces to prevent choking.
- Milk popsicles: Freeze breast milk or formula in popsicle molds and give them to your baby to suck on. The cold temperature will help numb the pain and the milk will provide some nutrition.
- Massage: Gently massage your baby's gums with your clean finger. This will help relieve some of the discomfort. You can also use a clean wet washcloth to massage their gums.
- Clove oil: Clove oil has natural numbing properties. Dilute a drop of clove oil in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and gently rub it on your baby's gums for instant relief.
While these home remedies can be effective, it's important to remember that every baby is different and what works for one may not work for another. If your baby is experiencing extreme discomfort or has a fever, it's always best to consult with a pediatrician.
