If your baby is at the “mouthing” stage, where he wants to put everything in his mouth, from his hands, toys, or anything in his reach, then he’s teething. Teething is one of the most common and challenging experiences parents go through, with babies acting fussy than their usual selves. Too often, well-meaning parents and caregivers who want to ease a child’s pain turn to medications and products. And while it may seem okay to use teething jewelry, homeopathic, and over-the-counter drugs marketed for easing teething pain, it’s not advised. These products may be dangerous and may cause serious injury and even death. Also, this applies to older kids with special needs who might use teething jewelry for sensory stimulation. So how can you help ease your baby’s teething pain? Read on to learn more.
What To Expect When Baby Starts Teething
According to TruCare Dentistry, most babies will start teething between 4 and 8 months, and by the time they reach three years old, most babies will have 20 primary teeth, or “milk teeth.”
The symptoms of teething are:
- Swollen gums.
- They may ooze drool which may cause rashes on the chin.
- The baby may be very fussy and irritable.
- They may bite on objects more often than usual and have difficulty nursing because the gums are sore.
- A few teething babies develop a low -grade –fever. If it goes up to 101 degrees, you should consult a doctor.
- Appetite loss.
- Harmless cysts may erupt.
Safe Remedies For Teething Pain
There are several safe ways to manage the pain and discomfort of teething:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers– According to Center City Paediatrics, over-the-counter pain relievers for teething, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen medication, are effective to children of 6 months and above as long as you consult your health care provider.
- Chewing on something cold, such as a washcloth that has been chilled in the refrigerator, is fine, long as it’s not frozen solid.
- Cold foods can also provide relief, such as frozen bagels.
- You can massage the baby’s gums with clean fingers.
- You can offer a cold pacifier or cold spoon.
- If your baby is nine months and beyond, you can give a few sips of cold water.
Also, note that emerging teeth normally don’t trigger any sickness in infants. So, if your baby begins to have symptoms of high fever, severe cough, or vomiting, it may not be linked to the teeth at all.
Unsafe Teething Remedies
There are many common remedies parents use that may not be effective or appropriate. Please avoid these remedies as they’re unsafe:
- Teething bracelets and other jewelry are popular as teething remedies, but many people do not know it comes with health concerns. Jewelry is made up of silicone, amber, wood, or marble, but teething jewelry is made up of hard plastic that can’t be worn. They can pose choking hazards since the beads are small enough to fit inside the mouth/throat, injure the mouth, or even cause an infection. It is best to avoid using any jewelry to soothe babies during teething.Parents and caregivers of babies with special needs who may need sensory stimulation should speak to their child’s pediatrician about safer options and treatment. Jewelry marketed to relieve teething pain and offer sensory stimulation can cause serious injuries, such as choking and strangulation.
