Hey there, Mumma! We know the struggle is real. You see your little one, usually a bundle of sunshine, turning into a grumpy grizzly bear thanks to those budding milk teeth pushing their way through. All you want is to comfort your baby. We’ve been there too (and some of us are still in the thick of it), and we completely understand the sleepless nights, the constant crankiness and the guilt that sneaks in when you worry that you aren’t doing it right.
We’ve put together this comprehensive guide, packed with practical tips and tricks to help yourself and your bubba past this bumpy phase. Here’s the lowdown on teething and how to turn those frowns upside down.
What’s teething?
Teething happens when your baby’s first set of teeth, also called milk teeth, begin to push through their gums. It can be a painful experience for some babies, while others may not seem bothered by it at all. Every baby experiences teething differently.
Teething can start as early as 3 months and may last until your little one is around 3 years old. It’s an exciting transformation in your child’s life, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy on our precious bubs (or us). Some common symptoms to watch out for include:
- Fussiness and irritability
- Drooling (a lot of it!)
- Gnawing on anything and everything they can get their hands on
- Swollen gums
- A low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite
- Ear pulling or cheek rubbing
- Disrupted sleep patterns
Safely soothe teething pain
Now for the important question: how can you help your little one through this uncomfortable time? Here are some tried-and-tested solutions that might just become your saving grace:
Teethers: Babies experience discomfort as their teeth push through the gums. Chewing on teethers provides counter-pressure, which can help soothe sore gums by temporarily numbing the area and relieving the pressure. Invest in various teethers made from different materials (silicone, chilled, textured) to find what your baby prefers. Chilled teethers can be especially numbing for sore gums.
Teething rings or toys: Some babies find relief by gnawing on teething rings or toys designed specifically for teething.
Gum massage: Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a good-quality teething mitt to provide some relief.
Cold comfort: For some babies, a bit of coldness can be a lifesaver. Try a chilled clean washcloth, or a mesh feeder filled with ice, frozen fruits or breastmilk. When feeding your baby, they may even enjoy eating from a chilled, but not frozen, spoon.
Pain prescription: If the discomfort is severe, consult your paediatrician about using infant pain relievers like paracetamol (for babies over 3 months) or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months). Always follow dosage instructions carefully.
Distraction techniques: Sometimes, a little distraction is all it takes! Engage your baby with brightly coloured toys, sing songs or blow bubbles to divert their attention from teething discomfort.
Breastfeeding or bottle feeding: Nursing or offering a bottle can provide comfort and distraction for teething babies, as the sucking motion can soothe their gums.
Teething biscuits or rusks: For older babies who have started solids, teething biscuits or rusks can provide relief, while also being a way to introduce new textures and flavours.
Warm bath: A soothing warm bath can help your baby relax before bedtime, potentially promoting better sleep.
Chamomile drinks (caffeine-free): Chamomile is known for its calming properties. For breastfeeding mums, you can pass on the benefits to your little ones through breast milk. If you are considering using chamomile teething remedies with your baby and your baby is younger than 6 months, consult your paediatrician.
Think again about jewellery and gels
When planning your teething remedies, consider the following concerns to ensure the well-being of your little one:
Take care with teething jewellery: Although designed and marketed as suitable for babies to chew on, teething necklaces or bracelets may present a choking hazard. The specific safety of each option depends on the quality of its design and manufacturing, but their use is generally discouraged due to the risk of choking if small beads or parts break off. If despite this warning you do choose to use such items, closely supervise your baby.
Teething gel caution
Diligent parents understandably consider all available options which may provide relief for their baby’s teething discomfort, including teething gels. However, evidence supporting the effectiveness of these medicated ointments is limited and they may do harm rather than good. The concern lies in the fact that topical treatments are often washed away by saliva, resulting in the baby swallowing most of the medication.
Some teething gels contain compounds which are best avoided. Products containing benzocaine, a compound linked to the development of Reye’s Syndrome, should not be consumed by infants. Reye’s Syndrome is a rare but serious condition that causes severe liver and brain damage. Additionally, teething gels may contain choline salicylate, which can lead to salicylate toxicity in infants and young children, presenting symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea and respiratory distress. Given the potential for your baby to ingest potentially harmful medications via teething gels, these should be avoided in the absence of individually personalised medical advice.
While these tips will help soothe your teething baby, you should also consult your paediatrician or dentist for a thorough health assessment. They can provide personalised guidance and recommend the safest alternatives for your baby’s particular teething discomfort. While babies who enter the teething stage in full health may have lower risks of discomfort and complications, it is still a good idea to seek advice from a trusted healthcare professional. Regular checks and conversations can help safeguard your baby’s safety and ensure your own peace of mind.
Remember, Mumma, you’ve got this!
Teething can feel like a marathon, not a sprint. There will be good days and bad days, and that’s perfectly okay. Be patient with your little one (and yourself!), and know that this phase will eventually pass. Here are some extra reminders to keep you going:
Cuddle therapy is real: Sometimes, all your baby needs is the comfort of your touch. Snuggle up together, sing lullabies and let them know you’re there for them.
Take care of yourself: It’s hard to take care of your baby when you’re running on fumes. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods and taking some time for yourself, even if it’s just a few stolen moments.
Connect with other mums: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who understand what you’re going through. There’s nothing more comforting than sharing war stories (and teething tricks) with other parents who’ve been in the trenches.
Embrace the milestones: Even though teething can be tough, it’s also a sign of your baby’s development. Those pearly whites are a big milestone, a sign that your little one is growing up strong and healthy. So, in between the cries and the crankiness, take a moment to celebrate this exciting time in your baby’s life.
Teething is just a temporary phase. This too shall pass! Take a moment to breathe, hug your little one a little tighter, and know that every drooly moment is a precious memory in the making. The nights may be long and the days a bit more demanding, but you are not alone in this challenge. Chat with other parents, and reach out to your paediatrician or dentist to discuss the safest and most effective soothing techniques. Understanding the process and trying out different methods in consultation with your healthcare team will help you provide the comfort and care your little one needs.
