With so many different opinions surrounding teething remedies, we thought we’d provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you decide which is the best for you.
Cold
As with all sore swellings, the cold helps. While an ice pack may not be feasible, you may consider using frozen fruit to soothe baby. A frozen carrot (large enough to avoid choking hazard) is ideal. Hold one end while your baby gnaws on the other.
Other cold foods you may want to consider include yoghurts and apple puree, while baby’s favourite drink frozen as a popsicle is also suitable. Avoid anything too acidic like lemon juice as this will not help to soothe baby and can cause tooth decay.
There are also a number of refrigerated teethers and pacifiers available to buy.
Pressure
Another common remedy for help with swelling is pressure. If your baby is teething, you will likely notice that they are desperate to apply some pressure to sore points on their gums. This is where teethers come in handy. Our teethers have textured surfaces designed to massage tender gums as well as teething surfaces to help promote the faster cutting of teeth.
If teethers don’t work, you can always rub baby’s gums with a clean finger or a clean cold washcloth. Teething biscuits are another alternative.
Medication
There are many numbing / teething gels available to buy over the counter. One problem with teething gels is that relief can be quite temporary and they contain mild painkiller – too much of which is not suitable for baby.
Painkillers should only be used as a last resort and after consultation with your doctor.
Distraction
One remedy for teething that is too often overlooked is distraction – keep your baby occupied. This is particularly effective as babies tend to be easily distracted! Reading baby’s favourite book, playing their favourite game or simply taking them out for a walk or a drive in the car can help to keep their mind occupied on something other than the pain in their gums.