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Teething is a significant developmental milestone in a baby’s life. It is the process of primary teeth (baby teeth) breaking through the gums, which typically starts around six months of age and continues until around three years old. While teething is a natural process, it can be challenging for babies and parents. Babies may experience discomfort, irritability, and disturbed sleep, while parents often feel concerned and unsure about how to provide relief. Fortunately, there are various efficient and safe methods for assisting your baby during the teething stage.

Learn more about how to ease your baby’s discomfort and make this phase more manageable with these five tips: 

1. Use Chilled Teething Toys or Cold Compresses

Cold temperatures can numb the gums and relieve toothache. You can provide your baby with chilled teething toys or rings made of safe, BPA-free materials. These toys can be kept in the refrigerator (not the freezer) to cool them down without becoming too hard. The cold sensation will soothe your baby’s gums as they chew on the toy. If your baby is older and has begun to consume solid foods, you can introduce cooled fruit or vegetable pieces in a mesh feeder.

2. Gently Massage the Gums

A gentle massage on your baby’s gums can provide comfort during teething. Wash your hands thoroughly, and then use a clean finger to apply gentle pressure to your baby’s gums. You can also rub their gums with a soft, damp cloth. The massage can help reduce inflammation and provide a soothing effect.

3. Teething Rings and Toothbrushes

Teething rings made of silicone or rubber are excellent for babies to gnaw on. They offer a firm yet gentle surface that can provide relief as your baby bites down on them. Make sure the teething rings are designed for babies and free of any small parts that could break off and pose a choking hazard.

As your baby gets older and starts to have teeth, consider using a baby-sized toothbrush specifically designed for teething babies. This not only helps to clean their new teeth but also offers a gentle way to massage the gums.

4. Keep Drool and Skin Dry

During the teething phase, babies tend to drool more than usual, which can lead to skin irritation around the mouth and chin. To prevent chapping and discomfort, keep the area dry by gently wiping away excess drool with a soft cloth throughout the day. You can also apply a gentle baby moisturiser to protect their delicate skin.

5. Comfort and Distraction

Teething can be a distressing time for babies, so offering comfort and distractions can be beneficial. Cuddling, rocking, and singing to your baby can help them feel secure during this uncomfortable phase. Provide your baby with their favourite toys or engage them in activities that capture their attention and take their mind off the teething discomfort.

Additionally, teething can cause disrupted sleep patterns for both babies and parents. Be prepared for nighttime wake-ups and try to maintain a consistent bedtime routine to provide a sense of security for your baby.

What to Avoid During Teething

While there are many safe and effective ways to help your baby through the teething stage, there are also some things to avoid:

Teething gels with benzocaine

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against using teething gels or creams containing benzocaine as they may cause rare but serious side effects, including methemoglobinemia, which reduces the amount of oxygen carried in the blood.

Giving your baby hard foods or objects

Hard foods like nuts, carrots, or ice cubes are not suitable for teething babies, as they can be a choking hazard and may damage their new teeth.

Teething toys that tie around your baby’s neck

This can pose a choking hazard, and the cord may get tangled around their neck.

Rubbing alcohol on your baby’s gums

If alcohol is applied to their gums, there is a significant risk that they might ingest it accidentally. Alcohol is toxic when consumed in even small amounts, and infants are particularly vulnerable to its effects.

Teething is a natural and sometimes challenging phase in a baby’s development. By following these five essential tips, you can help your baby through this stage with more comfort and ease.

Consult with your baby’s dentist to explore the best tooth replacement options suited to your specific needs.

Affinity Dental remains committed to investing in the health of your child’s teeth, ensuring you have access to dental professionals who are experienced, skilled, and passionate about maintaining and improving your child’s oral health.