When your baby begins teething, they may begin to act a little distressed or seem uncomfortable. In order to help them as their first set of teeth come through, there are some things you can do to keep them calm and relieve some of the discomfort that they are feeling.
Here are some top tips to soothe a teething baby.
Teething Rings
When your babies’ teeth begin to appear, having teething rings on hand can be of great help to ensure safe, soothing relief for your little one. There are a range of different products on the market that you can buy, including teething rings that can be chilled in the fridge, so make sure you pick up a few for your little one. Remember to regularly sterilise their teething rings, and only chill rings that specifically state that they can be put into the fridge. Don’t freeze rings, as this can make them too hard on your baby’s gums and cause further discomfort.
Crunchy Foods
If your baby has started chewing their fingers or other objects, the NHS recommends that from 6 months old, you can try giving them raw fruits and vegetables like carrots or melons to help with their growing teeth. You can also use softer foods like breadsticks or bread crusts. Don’t use foods that are sugary, like rusks or other biscuits, as these can cause tooth decay - even if your baby only has a couple of teeth.
Preventing Rashes
When you notice your baby dribbling wipe their mouth and chin using a clean, soft cloth. This is usually a sign that they have started teething, and can prevent soreness and irritation. If they’re started drinking plain water, a sip of cool water can help soothe pain. Wipe away any water they have around their mouths afterwards.
Comforting Them
The best thing you can do is comfort your little one. Teething can be quite a stressful time for the both of you, so giving them lots of cuddles will help them feel safe and give them some rest. You can use a clean finger to massage their gums in a gentle circular motion to help free them of some pain. Sitting in a quiet space together is sometimes all they need to calm down and distract them from teething. Play is also a great distraction, taking their focus away from those sore gums as they build other areas of development.
Nighttime
Teething problems can also arise at nighttime, which can be hard to manage. Keep lights dim, talk calmly to them and if needed, give them a quick feed if they haven’t moved away from baby milk. Gently soothe them back to sleep after a few cuddles. You can also give them a nice relaxing bath before putting them down to sleep for the night, as this can also act as a great distraction just before bed.
When Teeth Come Through
You must register your baby with a dentist when they begin teething, and regular trips will help you to ensure your baby’s teeth are kept in good condition. Begin brushing your baby’s teeth when you notice the first one has come through, using a tiny amount of toothpaste and a soft brush. Babies won’t always enjoy having their teeth brushed, but it’s imperative for ensuring good oral hygiene. Turning brushing into a fun activity encourages them to partake and promotes healthy habits as they begin to grow.
What To Do If You’re Concerned
If you have any concerns about your baby when they’re teething consult a medical professional. They may be able to offer help, advice and recommendations for specific medications if needed to help reduce pain. If you want to use teething gels, consult your doctor or pharmacist and don’t purchase any unlicensed products online. You also shouldn’t use teething jewellery that goes around your baby’s neck, as these can be dangerous and pose a choking hazard.
Teething is a huge step in your baby’s growth, but one that can also pose some challenges that you need to navigate. Find the methods that work for you, and keep your baby comfortable and safe during the process for a calmer time during these crucial stages.