Your Guide to Baby Teething
Baby teething is an exciting milestone but it can also be very painful and uncomfortable for some babies.
It's a normal process though and the symptoms can be managed (even if you do have a few sleepless nights!!)
We are going to talk you through the signs of baby teething and how to provide some relief and comfort to teething babies.
Teething normally starts around 6 months of age and by 2 or 3 years old, most kids have all twenty of their milk teeth.
How do you know if your baby is teething?
Here are some signs to look out for to know if your baby is teething:
- Chewing and biting on hard items
- Waking through the night
- Crying, irritable and upset
- Slight increase in temperature
- Flushed red cheeks
- Extra amounts of dribble
- No appetite or food refusal
- Pulling on the ear (usually same side as tooth erupting)
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Teething blisters (blue/grey bubble where tooth is coming up)
- Teething rash
Check out this hack by mum Steph using a glass to see if your baby is teething!
How to relieve sore gums of your teething baby
- Massage the gums lightly with your finger
- Teethers (make sure they are made from safe materials!)
- Cold water or cold chamomile tea (over 6 months)
- Cold food to chew on and soothe (watermelon with the rind is great!)
- Mesh feeders (add cold fruit or icecubes)
- Teething gels and remedies (check with your healthcare professional)
- Amber necklaces (make sure you get an authentic one and take it off when they are sleeping)
- You may also want to gently mop up the dribble to avoid rashes
Types of Teethers
There are so many types of teething aids available. It's important to get a good quality teether made with safe materials. This avoids choking hazards from pieces being bitten off and toxins from cheap plastics.
You might decide to pop your teether in the fridge to cool it. But don't freeze them!
Here are some options:
Silicone Teether and Stacking Toy
"Great quality teether." Michelle K, verified review
Bandana Bib with Silicone Teether
Wrist or Bracelet Silicone Teether
Do you need to clean baby teeth?
The answer to this one is yes, you do need to clean baby teeth! Some experts suggest even wiping baby gums before teeth come in with a soft face washer twice a day.
Jack and Jill Toothpaste and Toothbrushes have several different toothbrushes for each stage plus toxin-free toothpaste in kid-friendly flavours.
One more teething tip!
To prevent decay, avoid sugary drinks and letting them go to sleep with a bottle. The milk or juice can pool in the mouth and cause cavities.
Teething isn't always fun, but there are lots of things you can do to help baby cope. Of course, lots of cuddles and extra breastfeeding always help as well.
We would love to hear from you. What teething remedies have worked for you and your babies?
Would you like to win a $250 voucher to spend on anything else you like in our store? Join our VIP community below for our regular newsletters to be in with a chance!
Leave a comment
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.