What are the Home Remedies to help with Teething Babies?
February 8, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, as it often comes with discomfort and irritability. While there is no cure for teething, there are several home remedies and strategies that may help alleviate your baby’s discomfort:
- Cold teething toys or washcloths: Chewing on something cold can help numb your baby’s gums and provide relief from teething pain. Offer your baby a chilled teething toy or a clean, damp washcloth that has been placed in the refrigerator (not the freezer) for a few minutes.
- Teething rings: Silicone or rubber teething rings provide a safe and textured surface for your baby to chew on, helping to massage their gums and alleviate discomfort. Choose teething rings that are free of BPA and other harmful chemicals, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and cleaning.
- Gently massage the gums: Use clean fingers to gently massage your baby’s gums, applying gentle pressure to help soothe soreness and discomfort. Wash your hands thoroughly before massaging your baby’s gums to prevent the spread of germs.
- Chilled foods: Offer your baby chilled foods such as refrigerated apple slices, cucumber sticks, or frozen banana slices to gnaw on. The cold temperature can help numb their gums and provide relief from teething pain. Always supervise your baby closely when offering solid foods to prevent choking hazards.
- Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding: Nursing or offering a bottle can provide comfort and distraction for teething babies. The sucking action may also help alleviate teething discomfort. If breastfeeding, be mindful of your baby’s latch and ensure they are properly positioned to prevent nipple discomfort.
- Over-the-counter remedies: Consider using over-the-counter teething gels or creams that contain a mild numbing agent such as benzocaine or lidocaine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use these products sparingly, as they are not recommended for long-term use and may cause adverse effects if used excessively.
- Natural remedies: Some parents find relief for their teething babies using natural remedies such as chamomile tea (cooled and offered in a bottle), clove oil (applied sparingly to the gums), or homeopathic teething tablets. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using any natural remedies, especially if your baby has underlying health conditions or is taking other medications.
- Distraction: Engage your baby in soothing activities or playtime to help distract them from teething discomfort. Singing, cuddling, or going for a gentle walk in a stroller may provide comfort and help alleviate fussiness.
- Maintain a consistent routine: Stick to your baby’s regular feeding and sleeping schedule as much as possible to provide comfort and security during the teething process. Consistency can help reassure your baby and minimize disruptions caused by teething discomfort.
- Consult a pediatrician: If your baby’s teething symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, or refusal to eat, it’s important to consult a pediatrician. They can help rule out other potential causes of your baby’s symptoms and provide guidance on safe and effective teething remedies.
It’s important to remember that teething is a natural and temporary process that usually resolves on its own over time. While these home remedies can help alleviate your baby’s discomfort, they are not a substitute for regular dental care or medical attention when needed. If you have any concerns about your baby’s teething symptoms or overall health, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.