Teething can be a difficult time for babies. Here are some things you can do to relieve their discomfort:
Hugs and CuddlesA little extra TLC goes a long way when your baby is having a hard time teething. Lots of cuddles and attention will help to comfort and reassure a distressed baby!
Teething RingsTeething babies love to chew and bite - on absolutely anything! Sterilised teething rings can therefore be useful as they provide temporary relief and can actually help the teeth to cut through. Cold objects can be particularly soothing so why not pop a liquid-filled teething ring to chill in the fridge first? Just make sure that it's clean and definitely not frozen.
Rubbing their GumsLightly massaging your baby's gum with a clean finger can be soothing and help some of their discomfort feel a bit easier. Take the chance to do this while applying a topical teething gel which will have the added benefit of helping to provide ongoing relief afterwards too.
Food for ChewingIf your baby is over six months old, try offering them a sugar-free teething biscuit or unsweetened rusk. Alternatively, some like to gnaw on chilled bread slices or carrot sticks. Whatever you choose to give your baby make sure they are supervised and that they cannot bite chunks off, which could cause your baby to choke. Preferably avoid foods that are too hard as these could bruise the gums and cause further pain!
Cold Foods and DrinksCold helps to numb the pain, so chilled yoghurts, unsweetened apple puree or other baby foods could help. Make sure the food isn't frozen though! Likewise, cool drinks can help soothe the whole mouth. Try cooling boiled water or extra breast or formula milk in the fridge.
Teething Gel & GranulesTeething gels and/or granules massaged into the gums with a clean finger can provide fast-acting and targeted relief. Nelsons Teetha® is a natural remedy specially formulated for the soothing and calming relief of the symptoms of teething. It is ready-dosed in a convenient granule format that simply dissolves in a baby's mouth to help provide teething pain relief. Look for ones too that are sugar-free and colour-free such as Bonjela Teething Gel and make sure you check the dosage instructions and expiry date. (Always read the label). Most chemists will have own-brand gels available!
Infant Medicine (painkillers)A medicine designed especially for babies, such as Calpol or Disprol Paracetamol Suspension, can be used for babies who are three months or more to help relieve the pain associated with teething and bring down a raised temperature. However, if a raised temperature persists, a visit to a doctor is advisable so that other possible causes can be excluded.
Soothing Sore ChinsExcessive dribbling caused by teething can irritate babies' chin, neck and chest which may become dry, chapped and sore. Try to keep your baby's skin as dry as possible (a bib will help) and change any wet clothing. Applying a simple barrier cream can also help keep their skin soft and smooth and may ease any chapped skin.
Jan 12
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Your Baby and Teething
