Teething Symptoms
Oh, the miracle and maelstrom that is TEETHING! As your sweet baby’s tiny teeth begin to emerge, your little one is likely going to experience a whole host of symptoms. Some are more obvious, which you may immediately associate with this milestone (drooling, chewing and biting, swollen gums, ear pulling and cheek rubbing). Other times you may notice the symptoms first and wonder what is causing your baby to suffer from irritability, sleep disturbances, a loss of appetite, loose stools, or a mild temperature. In either case, I know first hand how desperately you’re searching for relief (for you and your baby!). I’m here to help.
P.S. If you’re wondering about the timing of the emergence of each tooth, I’ve made a handy chart you can reference throughout the whole teething period (CLICK HERE!)
Finding Relief
I’ll start with some of the more obvious objects and methods of relief.
- Teething Toys:
Teething toys are a classic go-to solution for providing babies with safe and soothing relief. Choose teething toys made from BPA-free materials that are specifically designed to be chilled. The coolness helps alleviate gum inflammation and provides a comforting sensation for your baby. Popular choices include teething rings, silicone teethers, and soft, textured toys that are easy for little hands to grasp.
- Chilled Washcloths:
A simple and cost-effective teething remedy is a chilled washcloth. Wet a clean washcloth, place it in the refrigerator for a short time, and then allow your baby to chew on it. The cool temperature helps reduce inflammation, while the textured surface provides a gentle massage for sore gums.
- Gum Massage:
No purchase necessary! Wash your hands thoroughly, and use your finger to lightly massage your baby’s sore gums, if they’ll tolerate it. Just be on the ready for a potential bite =)
- Cold Food and Drinks:
Introducing cold, soothing foods can be a tasty way to provide relief. If your baby has adjusted to solids, you can refrigerate or freeze soft foods like banana slices, carrots, a peeled cucumber or an age-appropriate teething biscuit. Cold milk or water (if determined they are ready) can help as well.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers:
When the discomfort is particularly intense, and a mild fever accompanies teething, pediatricians may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers suitable for infants such as Infant’s/Children’s Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Infant’s/Children’s Motrin (ibuprofen). When used properly, these can be used in conjunction with one another to provide consistent pain relief and reduced inflammation.
Keep in mind – every baby has unique preferences and unique needs for relief. One baby may enjoy cold objects, another likes warm. If it’s their gums that hurt before the tooth pops through, harder objects might be preferred. But soft cloth items are gentler when the tooth has erupted. Look around your house for safe objects in every category of size, material, temperature, texture, density, etc. and give them a try!
For example, here are some less common, but in my experience, equally successful teething objects:
- Large metal or wooden spoon
- Toothbrush
- Silicone garlic peeler or reusable snack bag
- Clean sock
- Unopened soda can
- Baby food pouch with the cap still on
- Indestructible, made-for-mouths baby book
- Chilled pacifier or baby bottle
- A towel over the front of their baby carrier so they can mouth and drool to their heart’s content while out for a walk, or just strolling around the house.
In addition to actively chewing, babies who are teething need lots of extra comfort. This can come in the form of:
- A warm bath
- Extra cuddles in the rocking chair
- More frequent feedings
- Full body and/or head massage
- Lots of gentle lullabies
- Tender words of acknowledgement and affirmations that you’re there.
Final thoughts:
- Rest is key – teething is hard on babies and parents alike. If possible, reduce any disruptions to your nap and nighttime sleep routines so everyone can get the rest they need.
- Your self-care is a priority too – milestones like teething can take a toll on our energy and patience. If you can take shifts comforting your baby with your partner, ask for help, make space for a power nap on your lunch break, or decompress and relax in the evening, it will go a long way to bolster your mental health, and your ability to parent compassionately during this trying time.
- Hydration is extra important – all of the drooling can quickly lead to dehydration for your baby, so increasing fluids (just like you do when they’re sick) is always a good move.
- Rashes may appear – soft stools can quickly lead to diaper rashes, and lots of drool can irritate baby’s face and neck. Arm yourself with burp cloths, diaper cream, and absorbent bibs for these teething months.
- Beware of alternative remedies – teething gels, amber necklaces and a whole host of tinctures, essential oils and natural/alternative remedies are marketed to parents of teething babies. Do your research, and let science and your pediatrician guide you.
Above all else, remember that there’s only so much you can do. Teething is a naturally uncomfortable experience; crying is normal and healthy; and sometimes there’s just no solution. Put your bond with your baby first, so that when you encounter a challenge of theirs that you just can’t fix, you’ll stick to what you can control. That is, the loving, respectful and attentive care you can provide to your baby, no matter what.
Stay strong!
<3> Coach Nina
w: understanding my baby.com
e: nina@understandingmybaby.com