Your newborn baby is born with 20 teeth under the gum line. The first tooth usually appears between 6 months and one year of age.
When your infant starts teething, it can be a very challenging time.
Symptoms of teething include:
Sore or tender gums
Drooling
Irritability
Low-grade fever around 99 F
Chewing
Drool rash around the mouth
There are several ways to soothe gums. The most effective treatments include pressure, using cold items, and giving your baby something safe to chew.
1. Massage the Gums
Applying pressure to your infant’s gums may help ease the pain. After thoroughly cleaning your hands, lay your baby on the bed and massage their gums gently with your finger. This may actually help your baby relax and fall asleep.
2. Get a Cold Washcloth
It is a good idea to find a clean washcloth and soak it in water and wring out the water until it is damp. Then place the washcloth in the fridge or freezer to cool it down.
After it is nice and cool, fold the washcloth and give to your baby to chew. Never leave your baby unattended if they are chewing on something, even a washcloth, because this could be a choking hazard.
3. Refrigerate a Pacifier or Teething Toy
If your baby uses a pacifier, you can also use it to soothe their gums by cooling it down. You should make sure the pacifier is clean and place it in the refrigerator. You can also do the same by placing any solid teething toys in the fridge. It is a good idea to stay away from liquid or gel-filled toys, which could possibly leak.
4. Freeze Milk Popsicles
Some babies will not eat while they are teething. This is most likely because of the discomfort. If possible, you should find BPA-free popsicle forms and fill them with breastmilk or formula. To avoid mess, use a bib and place your baby in their high chair.
5. Wipe Away Excess Drool
It is helpful to have your baby wear a bib while they teethe because the excess drool can soak their clothing. Gently wipe and dry any signs of drool as often as you can. Keep your child’s face dry to prevent a rash.
6. Chill Some Fruit
If you have introduced your baby to solid foods, you could try freezing some types of foods to help soothe irritated gums. Chilled mashed bananas are a great start! You can try other fruits in a mesh feeder for your baby to suck on. The mesh feeder will help prevent choking. Monitor your baby at all times and make sure your infant is old enough for a variety of fruits such as chilled apples, pairs or strawberries.
7. Extra Cuddling Time
Sometimes the best way to help a baby in discomfort is some extra cuddle time. Rocking your baby in a big chair or carrying your baby around the house (in a baby carrier) are great ideas. If you breastfeed, don’t be afraid to give your baby additional nursing sessions for comfort. Provide a calm environment to help them relax and fall asleep.
8. Pain Medications
As a last resort, you can talk to your doctor about providing over-the-counter pain medication. These medicines help alleviate pain and allow the baby to go to sleep. Your pediatrician can advise you on the correct dosage and which type of pain relievers work best.
Stay away from teething gels and tablets that contain lidocaine or benzocaine. They can be harmful and often numb a baby’s mouth, causing issues with swallowing.
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