Congratulations! Your little one is starting to get their teeth, but along with those adorable pearly whites come sleepless nights filled with fussiness. Soothe a teething baby can feel like an uphill battle, not only for the little ones but for parents as well. Sleep deprivation is a genuine struggle, and many teething remedies advertised can take advantage of your desperation. When your baby is in distress, you may find yourself willing to try anything just to ease their pain. We’ve all been there!
Sadly, many of these (often costly) products claiming to relieve teething discomfort aren’t endorsed by medical professionals or the FDA. So, what options are truly safe? Let’s explore everything you need to know about teething babies.
What Are the Symptoms of Teething?
You might often hear well-meaning friends suggest that your baby must be teething whenever they have a mild fever or diarrhea. However, research indicates that this is not accurate. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are the actual symptoms of teething:
- Excessive drooling: Your baby may leave a trail of drool, much like a tiny human snail.
- Chewing on everything: While babies naturally explore with their mouths, you’ll notice a heightened urge to gnaw on objects.
- Irritability or crankiness: This symptom can be particularly challenging, as a fussy baby may feel overwhelming.
- Sore or tender gums: Expect to see red or swollen gums where teeth are emerging.
- Slight increase in temperature: Not a full-blown fever, just a minor rise in temperature.
- Decreased appetite: With sore gums, babies may prefer liquids over solid foods.
If your baby experiences a fever (especially in the early teething stages) or diarrhea, it’s wise to consult your pediatrician.
When Do Babies Start Teething?
Typically, your baby’s first teeth will appear around 6 months old, with the last molars potentially coming in by 33 months. Yes, it’s a lengthy teething process!
What Remedies Can I Use for Teething?
Fortunately, there are safe methods to alleviate your baby’s discomfort, as recommended by the Mayo Clinic and the FDA:
- Keep it cool: A cold spoon or chilled teething ring (not frozen!) can provide relief. Always supervise your baby when using these items.
- Gentle massage: Using clean fingers, you can gently massage your baby’s gums. It’s not the grossest thing you’ll do as a parent and can lead to some cuddle time.
- Cool foods and teething biscuits: If your baby has started on solids, try offering teething biscuits or cold foods like yogurt. One mom even suggests bagels for teething, when appropriate. Just remember to clean your baby’s gums afterward to avoid cavities.
- Over-the-counter medication: While not a go-to solution, if your baby is having a particularly tough night, it’s okay to administer Tylenol in the correct dosage for their age and weight. Always check with your pediatrician before giving any medication.
- Seek advice from fellow parents: Other parents can be an invaluable resource. Sharing your baby’s teething struggles with friends or caregivers can lead to helpful tips or at least some sympathy for your sleepless nights.
What Teething Remedies Should I Avoid?
Many teething products on the market may pose risks. Here’s a rundown of a few teething treatments to steer clear of:
- Teething necklaces: Although amber teething necklaces may seem appealing, they can be dangerous. The FDA warns that they pose risks of choking, strangulation, and mouth injuries.
- Oral analgesics: The FDA advises against using topical numbing creams, as they often wash out quickly and may pose significant risks.
- Homeopathic remedies: While some parents swear by these, lab analysis has found potentially harmful amounts of ingredients like belladonna in some products, which can lead to serious health issues.
When Should I Consult a Doctor?
Teething can lead to crankiness and sleepless nights, but it’s usually manageable at home. However, if your baby has a fever, diarrhea, or is inconsolable for an extended period, it’s best to err on the side of caution and contact your doctor.
Good luck, parents! We will get through this together.
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Summary:
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, marked by symptoms such as drooling, irritability, and sore gums. While many remedies are available, not all are safe or effective. Safe options include cold teething rings, gentle gum massages, and certain over-the-counter medications. Avoid teething necklaces and topical numbing creams due to potential risks. If complications arise, consult a pediatrician.