Parents of teething babies, do not despair! Help is at hand. We know it can be hard for you to witness your baby in any kind of pain, but the teething process is something that all babies have to endure. And it can definitely result in irritability, tears and lots of sleepless nights (for both the parents and the baby!). Were here to help you through this cranky time. Here are some tips on how you and your baby can get through the teething period with the least amount of suffering:
1 Soothe your babys gums by massaging them with a clean finger. The pressure helps alleviate the soreness of the gums. If youd prefer not to use your finger directly, you can use a gauze pad instead to rub the gums, as long as it is moistened.
2 Cool the area down. Use a chilled spoon or a cold washcloth to help offer your babys gums some much-needed relief. The coolness will be calming but make sure it is not too cold by using the fridge, not the freezer.
3 Get rid of any excess drool. Whilst teething, babies tend to drool even more than usual (yes, its possible!). This can sometimes irritate their skin and cause a rash. You can help by keeping a dry cloth at hand to gently rub any excess drool away.
4 Teething rings can be a godsend. Your baby can chew on them to relieve pain and they will love it! Certain teething rings can be cooled in the fridge beforehand, making it a double whammy.
5 Sugar-free teething gels can be used to numb the gum area. Just ensure that the gel you use is specially aimed at babies, as you can also get teething gels for adults! For babies younger than 4 months, please check with your doctor before using.
6 Distract them with some delightful play time. When nothing else seems to be working, simply playing with your baby can help keep their mind off their teething. Take them out in their baby carriers for a change of scenery, or keep them occupied at home with cuddles and toys.
7 For babies that have already started eating solids, cold foods like yogurt or chilled fruits will help fill them up and ease gum pain.
8 If all else fails and your baby is getting really distressed with the teething pain, over-the-counter remedies are widely available. Infant medicine with small amounts of paracetamol or ibuprofen can help ease the pain. Pop your baby in your baby carrier and head to the pharmacy. You will be able to find plenty of painkillers specifically aimed at babies and young children, but if you are unsure, your pharmacist will be able to advise you.
I think we can all agree that teething is definitely not the most enjoyable experience for parents or baby, but once its over your baby will be perfectly fine. That is, until the next tooth starts to emerge!
