Teething babies are notoriously cranky and fussy, but thankfully teething troubles are preventable. Keep your baby happy and comfortable while their teeth are coming through by following these top teething tips.
Use Cold to Soothe Sore Gums
Cold can be very soothing for sore gums. Give your baby a cold washcloth or chilled teething ring to suck on to help them settle when they are teething. However, don’t give the baby ice or a frozen teething ring, as extreme cold can damage a baby’s delicate skin and oral tissues. You can also give the baby a chilled spoon to play with, but do not give cutlery with sharp edges or small pieces that could break off.
Keep Baby’s Face Dry
Teething babies tend to produce a lot of drool. As this saliva runs out of the mouth and over the surrounding skin, it can cause irritation, which can make your baby even more grumpy. Wipe your baby’s face regularly to remove drool and prevent the skin from drying out and becoming sore.
Apply Pressure to Gums
Rubbing a baby’s gums can help teeth to emerge from the gums and relieve teething discomfort. Wash your hands and then use a finger to gently rub the baby’s gums. You can also give the baby hard foods, such as raw carrot or chilled apple, to chew on. Hard foods provide necessary pressure to help the teeth push through the gums, although you should keep an eye on your child to watch out for choking.
Try Medicines
Pharmacies sell a range of medicines to help soothe teething babies. Infant doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. However, it is important not to use any medicines that are not recommended for babies. Some oral gels are only suitable for adults, so be sure to read the packaging carefully, or consult a pharmacist or dentist for advice.
Schedule a Dental Check Up
The American Dental Association recommends taking your baby to see a dentist once they get their first tooth. The dentist can examine the baby’s teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy and developing as expected. You can search for a DentalSave dentist near you here.
