Teething 101: Approved Ways to Soothe a Teething Baby

7 WAYS TO SOOTHE TEETHING

1.KEEP IT COLD: 

Numb your baby’s painful gums with something cold. Pop her tether in the fridge for half an hour before use or, if she’s over six months, offer some cold water in a cup. Depending on her age, feed her chilled fruit purees or pop a chunk off frozen banana or plums in a baby-feeder mesh bag for her to gnaw on. Or make a Popsicle using a baby-safe lolly- mold, to relieve the pain. If you’re breastfeeding, express some breast milk and freeze this instead.

2. TURN UP THE HEAT: 

Warmth may also ease her discomfort. Give your baby a clean warm flannel or muslin soaked in a little warm water or suck on – the gentle heat can ease aching gums, and help teeth to break through the gums more easily.

3. APPLY PRESSURE :

The nobly bits on some tethers can provide extra relief and will give your baby’s gums something to grasp onto. And have a selection of different shapes, too – circular tethers are best when she’s cutting her front teeth, but she’ll need a longer, thinner design to reach her molars. The crook of your little finger makes the best tethers of all (always wash your hands first). And if she’s restless at night, gently press on her gum with your little finger – it’s a great way to soothe her without waking her up.

4. OFFER MEDICINE: 

Infant paracetamol is best for relieving mild to moderate discomfort before a tooth comes through. When she’s actually cutting a tooth, infant ibuprofen may be more effective, as it reduces inflammation. Only use pain-relief medication for a night or two, if she’s really struggling to settle.

5. TRY TEETHING GEL: 

Teething gels, available over the counter, contain a mild anaesthetic to numb her gums and ease pain. Choose a sugar-free gel– and only use gels as a second-line treatment .If massaging her gums hasn’t done the trick. Apply directly to the gum with a clean finger, or put a little on her tethers. Consult a GP if the discomfort hasn’t eased after a couple of days.

6. GO GLAM!: 

Silicone teething jewellery, such as bangles and necklaces designed for mum to wear, are a great way to ensure that you always have a tethers to hand to distract your tot. Your baby can chomp down heavily on it, and the pressure will help alleviate discomfort in her gums.

7. HUGS AND KISSES: 

Extra cuddles really do soothe teething pain. And, if her teeth are making sleep difficult, pop her in a carrier and head out for a walk. She’ll feel comforted just by being close to you. And, if you can have skin-to-skin contact back at home, all the better. This releases the hormone oxytocin, which decreases pain levels.