Teething: How To Help

Trying to chew on anything within an arm's reach, excessive drooling, and a bit fussier than normal … sound like your sweet baby?! Well, he might be teething!  

Pain associated with teething generally only lasts 24-72 hours prior to the tooth eruption, but it can be miserable for our sweet little ones. Seeing that tooth finally pop through the gums is such a relief, but how can we support our babies when they are fussy before that happens?

Here are some teething remedies for you to try that actually work! 

  • EXTRA COMFORT: I know this can be exhausting, but your precious baby won’t need you like this forever. Try more rocking, nursing/feeding, and wearing your baby with comfy babywear options.

  • COLD: Frozen washcloth (can use water, but soaking in bone broth or chamomile tea can be more helpful). Frozen fruits or veggies in silicone teethers (bananas are my favorite for teething), or a cold pacifier. 

  • PRESSURE: Applying pressure to your baby’s teeth can really help to ease their pain: you can try silicone teething rings, your own clean hands, or a damp washcloth to massage your baby’s gums. Keeping a variety of toys for them to chew on helps them not get bored with just one option. 

  • SUPPLEMENTS: Vitamin D and probiotics can be helpful in supporting the immune system, as it can be compromised when little ones are teething. My favorites are from Mary Ruth.

  • DISTRACTION: Take your baby outside, or try a bath – distracting them from the pain by mixing up their surroundings can be very beneficial. 

  • REDUCE INFLAMMATION:  Feed them non-inflammatory foods. Try a variety of healthy fats (avocado, coconut, eggs), and fresh fruits and vegetables.

  • PAIN MEDICATION: Only if necessary, you may want to administer pain medication. Motrin is a good option for babies older than 6 months, because it helps reduce inflammation.

While watching your sweet baby in pain isn’t any fun, hopefully you can find comfort in knowing that the pain won’t last forever. And, remember, the pain is for a purpose – those bright, white teeth will be here in no time!

But of course, sometimes you may think your child is fussy due to teething, which has perhaps caused the spike in temperature causing a fever, only to find out that indeed they have a virus that’s going around. In that case, you’ll want to ensure you treat the symptoms of the virus. For more info on everything viruses, check out my signature course: Mastering Medical Emergencies at Home. 

You got this!

XO

Shan


infantShan TrippTeething, Health, Children, KIds, Infant, Baby