Teething

• How to ease the discomfort
  • Chew toys: plastic or rubber to chew on can feel soothing for aching teeth
    • WARNING: teething necklaces and bracelets made of amber, wood, marble, or silicone are choking and strangulation hazards and the FDA warns against their use
  • Cool things:
    • Can help to numb the gums and ease inflammation
    • A damp washcloth (with a knot tied into one end) can be placed in the freezer
    • Note: avoid giving baby things that are frozen solid as these are too hard and cold for baby’s mouth
  • Massage:
    • Giving baby’s gums a gentle massage with your finger or knuckle can provide great relief
    • Be sure to thoroughly wash your hands prior to massaging baby’s gums
  • Medications:
    • If your baby’s teething pain is significant and unrelieved by the above comfort measures, discuss the possibility of giving baby weight-dosed Tylenol or similar medications

Teething can be an uncomfortable time for little ones, but there is hope for relief! As always, if you have questions or concerns regarding teething, please contact your pediatrician. Feel free to check out this link from the American Academy of Pediatrics:

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/teething-tooth-care/Pages/Teething-Pain.aspx