If you’ve ever cared for an infant, you’re well aware of the challenges that come with teething. Our little ones can’t articulate their distress, and they resort to the only method they know: relentless crying. This discomfort can throw even the best sleep schedule out the window, turning your previously peaceful sleeper into a baby who wakes up every couple of hours, as if they were back to their newborn days.
The drooling is relentless, soaking through everything your baby wears. Bibs can only do so much to contain the mess, and the constant moisture can lead to rashes on your baby’s chin, neck, and cheeks.
My friend Melissa’s firstborn also suffered from teething woes, developing blood blisters on his gums prior to cutting teeth, while her second son, Lucas, would bite during breastfeeding as his first teeth emerged. It was a painful experience for both of them.
If your baby is currently battling teething discomfort, don’t worry. We’ve compiled a list of effective home remedies and teething products to help soothe your little one’s pain until those tiny teeth finally emerge. You may already have some solutions on hand.
Here are some trusted at-home remedies:
- Frozen Washcloth: Dampen a soft, clean washcloth and place it in the freezer. The coolness combined with the texture can provide your baby’s sore gums with much-needed relief. Some parents add a splash of juice to the water for added interest. Pro tip: Freeze multiple washcloths laid flat, separated by wax paper for a quick grab later.
- Mini Bagel Delight: A plain, frozen mini bagel can offer a smooth surface for your baby to chew on. Just ensure that your baby can handle all the ingredients, and monitor it closely as it thaws. Once it starts to break apart, it’s time to take it away.
- Homemade Popsicles: Homemade juice pops are a great treat that can also alleviate teething pain. If your baby hasn’t tried juice yet, consider making a “milksicle” with breast milk or formula. There are handy tools available to create perfectly sized baby pops.
- DIY Teether Bottle: If your baby is hesitant about traditional teething toys, fill a familiar bottle halfway with water and freeze it upside down. The frozen nipple shape is something they’re used to, providing a comforting option.
- Chilled Metal Spoons: Rubbing a chilled metal spoon along your baby’s gums is an age-old remedy for teething pain. If you’re out and about, simply ask for a couple of extra spoons when ordering a glass of ice water. You can keep them in your drink, ensuring you always have a cold spoon ready for your baby.
While home remedies are fantastic, don’t overlook some innovative teething products that can bring comfort without the need for freezing. Vibrating teethers, for instance, offer a gentle massage to sore gums. You can find cute shapes like strawberries or smiling grapes that might just make teething a little more bearable.
Natural rubber teethers, such as those made by Sophie the Giraffe, have been comforting babies since the sixties. For something different, you might want to try the banana brush, which serves as both a teether and a training toothbrush, preparing your baby for oral hygiene.
Silicone feeders are a great alternative to mesh ones, making it easy to put frozen fruit or homemade popsicles inside for on-the-go relief. Plus, you can quickly turn an ice cube from your drink into a frozen teether.
Your baby’s hands are going to be in their mouth anyway, so why not give them a teething mitt? This adorable accessory can be a handy addition to your baby’s teething toolkit.
If your baby is still struggling despite these remedies, don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician about the possibility of using some over-the-counter pain relief. Depending on their age, they might be able to take something to ease their discomfort, allowing both of you some much-needed rest.
While you now have a wealth of useful tips, be cautious of common misconceptions. Avoid putting your fingers in your baby’s mouth to massage their gums, especially during a pandemic. And contrary to what some may suggest, you should never apply whiskey to your baby’s gums. It’s simply not safe.
You should also steer clear of herbal teething remedies. The FDA has consistently warned against them, as they tend to be ineffective and unregulated. Lastly, while amber teething necklaces may seem popular, there’s no scientific evidence to support their effectiveness, and they can pose choking hazards.
Teething is undoubtedly tough on both your baby and your heart as a parent. However, with these tips and products in your arsenal, you can navigate this challenging time. Soon, your little one’s adorable grin will show off those pearly whites.
For more parenting insights, check out this blog post for more helpful advice. If you’re curious about other aspects of parenting, Intracervical Insemination is an excellent resource for addressing common misconceptions in the field. Additionally, Drugs.com provides valuable information regarding pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, teething can be a trying experience for both babies and their parents, but with the right approaches and products, you can ease the discomfort and support your little one through this phase.