Tips For Teething Relief

Let's face it, babies are a beautiful mystery. They coo, they gurgle, and sometimes they cry – a lot. But how do you decipher what's causing the tears? Is it a hungry rumble or a battle brewing beneath the gums? Meet teething, the next big nightmare for parents after colic and gas. Teething is a stage where your little one's pearly whites are pushing their way through the gums, causing discomfort and frustration.

This rite of passage can be frustrating for both the baby and the caregiver. But fear not, fellow explorer parents! This post is your treasure map to navigating teething troubles and keeping your little one comfortable. We will go into clever tips for soothing teething babies, solutions, and gentle remedies to turn those frowns upside down.

Understanding Teething

Teething is the exciting (and sometimes frustrating) process where your baby's first pearly whites break through the gums and emerge into the world. Beneath the surface of your baby's gums, a full set of 20 primary teeth (also called baby teeth) are nestled in their jawbones. As these tiny teeth develop, they start pushing through the gums, which can cause irritation, inflammation, and discomfort for your little one.

The typical teething timeframe can vary from baby to baby. Here is a typical teething timeline every parent should be aware of:

●      Lower central incisors: 6-10 months

●      Upper central incisors: 8-12 months

●      Lateral incisors (top and bottom): 10-16 months

●      Canines (top and bottom): 16-23 months

●      First molars (top and bottom): 13-19 months

●      Second molars (top and bottom): 23-31 months

Soothing Techniques for Teething Babies

Teething is a natural process, but it can be a trying time for both you and your baby. The good news is there are plenty of soothing techniques you can use to ease their discomfort. Here's a toolbox filled with tips to help teething baby:

Teething Toys

Wondering how to prepare for a teething baby? Stock up on a variety of teething toys well before your baby shows signs of teething. This way, you'll be ready to offer them something safe to chew on when the discomfort begins. When a tooth erupts, the gums become inflamed. Chilled teething toys provide a numbing effect, easing the pain and pressure. Choose safe, BPA-free teething toys made from silicone or rubber.

Make sure that the toys don't have signs of wear and tear already before giving to the baby. Discard any cracked or broken toys that could pose a choking hazard. Offer a variety of textured and chewy teething toys to cater to your baby's preferences. Some popular options include mesh teethers, textured rings, and teething keys.

Gum Massage

Gentle gum massage can be incredibly soothing for a teething baby. The pressure helps reduce inflammation and provides comfort.

●      Step-by-Step Instructions

1.       Wash your hands thoroughly

2.       Gently rub your clean index finger back and forth on your baby's gums in a circular motion.

3.       Apply light pressure, focusing on the areas where the teeth are erupting.

4.       Be mindful of your baby's reaction. If they seem uncomfortable, stop the massage.

Cool Relief

A simple yet effective way to soothe sore gums is by offering a cool, damp washcloth or chilled teething ring. The coolness numbs the area and provides relief. For babies who are past the initial stages of teething and have started solids, fill a teething mesh feeder with chilled fruits or vegetables like peeled cucumber or chilled grapes. This allows them to chew on something cold and soothing while familiarizing themselves with new textures.

Pain Relief (Consult Pediatrician First)

For particularly fussy or uncomfortable babies, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen might be necessary. Always consult your pediatrician before administering any medication to your baby. They can advise on the appropriate dosage and make sure that it's safe for your baby's specific needs.

Distraction

Sometimes, the best way to ease teething discomfort is by taking your baby's mind off it. Engage them in playful activities with bright, colorful toys or sing them soothing songs. A change of scenery, like a walk in the park, can also work wonders.

When to Worry

Teething is a necessary part of your baby's development, but it can be a confusing time for parents. A 2020 study involving 200 parents highlighted this very point, revealing that many caregivers mistakenly attributed unrelated symptoms to teething. Let's clear up some common misconceptions and understand when to truly worry during your baby's teething journey.

Teething Myths

●      High Fever: Teething can cause some mild gum inflammation, but it shouldn't lead to a high fever (generally above 100.4°F or 38°C). A high fever during teething might indicate another underlying illness.

●      Persistent Diarrhea: Teething may cause some increased drooling, but it shouldn't cause persistent diarrhea. Diarrhea, along with teething, could be a sign of a tummy bug or other issue.

●      Disrupted Sleep for Weeks: While teething can cause some fussiness and disrupted sleep patterns, it shouldn't be the sole reason for weeks of sleep troubles. If your baby is struggling to sleep for extended periods, consult your pediatrician to rule out other causes.

●      Severe Fussiness: While some fussiness is normal during teething, if your baby is inconsolably crying and seems overly distressed, consult your doctor.

●      Signs of Earache: If your baby is pulling or tugging at their ears excessively, crying more than usual, or seems to have ear pain, it's important to see a doctor to rule out an ear infection.

●      Bleeding Gums: Although some mild gum bleeding might occur during teething, excessive bleeding warrants a visit to the pediatrician.

Final Thoughts

Teething is an inevitable hurdle on your baby's path to a sparkling smile. While it can be a frustrating time for both you and your little one, there's no need to weather the storm alone. By incorporating the tips for soothing teething babies that we've told you in this blog, you can equip yourself with guidance to bring back your baby’s teethy/gummy smile.