Teething Troubles: 10 Tips for Easing Your Baby’s Discomfort (and Yours!)

When my first child, Mia, began teething at just three months old, I was completely caught off guard. She awoke each day fussy and sporting a slight fever, leading me to believe she had a cold. Soon after, the drooling began, and she started gnawing on her bottle nipple instead of drinking from it. A quick peek into her mouth revealed swollen gums with her first tooth on its way in. Ouch! I stumbled through the teething phase with her, applying the lessons learned when my twins, Leo and Ella, began their own teething journey. Teething can turn even the happiest baby into a miserable little one, and that can drive parents up the wall. While I tried to empathize with Mia’s discomfort, maintaining my patience was a challenge during this stage. Thankfully, I discovered some helpful strategies to soothe my little ones.

1. Fingers

Let your baby chomp on clean fingers—yours or theirs! If you’re feeling adventurous, dip your finger in cold water for a chilly chew toy.

2. Sophie the Giraffe

When I first saw the price of Sophie, I couldn’t believe my eyes. But this beloved rubber toy became a staple in our home, with my kids enthusiastically chewing on her antlers and legs. If you prefer something more budget-friendly, consider the Lil’ Llama Teething Toy as a delightful alternative.

3. Frozen Foods

Some parents I know have found success giving their kids frozen waffles or pretzels. Just be vigilant, as these can pose a choking hazard as they soften.

4. Teething Biscuits

My kids’ pediatrician recommended teething biscuits for those over six months. Designed to dissolve, they provide both relief and a tasty treat for little ones.

5. Mesh or Silicone Feeders and Teethers

I loved using mesh feeders filled with frozen fruits like mango or strawberries. They were a bit messy, but my kids relished the cold, sweet distraction. For a tidier option, try a silicone feeder from Haakaa.

6. Frozen Washcloth

Soak a clean washcloth in water, freeze it for about 30-60 minutes, and let your baby gnaw on it. One clever mom even soaked hers in breast milk before freezing for added flavor!

7. Anti-Drop Wrist Teether

These innovative teethers slip onto your baby’s wrist, minimizing the hassle of picking up dropped toys. They come in various designs, including some that resemble colorful brass knuckles.

8. Gum Massage

Gently massaging your baby’s gums with clean fingers can offer temporary relief until you find a teething ring or cold washcloth.

9. Bibs

While your baby may find chewing on a bib soothing, they also help keep their chin and neck dry, preventing irritation from drool.

10. Medication

If other remedies fall short, over-the-counter medications like Children’s Tylenol can provide relief, especially for sleep. Always consult your pediatrician before trying new products.

Finding the right solution for a teething baby can be a process of trial and error, but remember, it’s a phase that will eventually pass. Teething bites may be a rite of passage, but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to be unbearable for you or your little one. For more information on home insemination, check out our blog post here, and for expert advice, visit Make a Mom. For additional resources, MedlinePlus offers excellent information here.

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In summary, teething can be a challenging journey for both babies and parents. By exploring various remedies and techniques, you can discover what works best for your little one, making this phase a bit more manageable.