Just when you thought your bundle of joy was getting into the routine of sleeping all night, suddenly they are waking up fussy and irritable. The first two lower incisors usually erupt around 4mo of age, and the top two at around 8-9mo. They could be sick, but if they are approaching 6 months old, it is more likely it’s their first tooth coming in causing their discomfort. Let’s learn as much as possible about how to soothe a teething baby: tips and remedies for parents.
Reach out to Pediatrics of Greater Orlando if the provided suggestions do not adequately alleviate your baby’s discomfort. Contact our pediatric clinic in Orlando, FL today by calling (407) 704-6912.
Signs of teething
Crankiness and excessive drooling are the first signs that your baby is teething. Infants will tend to rub their gums to alleviate the discomfort. Nighttime seems to be the worst. Some people erroneously attribute these nocturnal awakenings to “sleep regression” or something else.
Look for these signs:
- Wanting to chew on objects
- Tender gums
- Fussiness
- Slight increase in temperature, but not a fever
The worst pain occurs 24 to 72 hours before the tooth eruption. You can feel a little nub or top of the tooth if you rub your finger on your baby’s gums. Teeth on the bottom usually come first.
Helping your baby
There are some basic do’s and don’ts when soothing your teething baby.
Think cold, not frozen
There are many implements and natural substances you can use to help relieve the pain. Just remember whatever you use should be cold, but not frozen.
- There are teething rings you can purchase, and these silicone rings are easy for your baby to grab and hold onto.
- There are also some mesh pacifiers with a small hatch at the end that can be filled with frozen breastmilk or formula.
- Rinse a soft cloth and place it in the fridge until ready to use. Your baby will bite down on it for pain relief.
- Cold pieces of watermelon are not only helpful but a tasty treat too.
- A chilled spoon rubbed on baby’s gums will soothe their pain for a bit.
- If the toddler is already on solids, mini bagels can be chopped in half and chilled to be used as teething rings.
If your baby seems especially uncomfortable, ask your pediatrician about any specific over-the-counter medications for teething.
Other tips
- Use your clean finger to rub your baby’s gums. You can also use clean wet gauze. Only use light pressure.
- Massage your baby’s feet. There is some kind of connection between feet and teeth. This action seems to help distract and relieve the pain. Use a lotion as you massage.
- Regularly wipe away the drool.
- Be patient. Your baby is crying and fussy because teething hurts.
What to avoid
- Gels with benzocaine or lidocaine taste terrible, and are overkill.
- Do not use teething necklaces or bracelets which can break, leak or lead to choking.
- Homeopathic teething tablets – these can usually be identified by ingredients that are followed by numbers and the letter X.
Before you know it, you’ll be taking lots of adorable photos of your baby showing off their new teeth.
Contact Pediatrics of Greater Orlando at (407) 704-6912 if none of the above tips sufficiently relieves the baby’s discomfort.
