Teething can be a trying time for both babies and their parents. Teeth cutting through the gums can cause pain, discomfort, trouble sleeping and excess drooling, which can lead to rashes. If your 4-month-old has started teething, you can help ease his pain and other symptoms.
Teething Ring
A teething ring is a soft, plastic ring that is usually filled with water and sealed. Many parents put the teething ring in the refrigerator or freezer, which makes it cold and helps to numb the baby's gums as she bites and sucks on it. Many babies have an increased desire to put things in their mouths during teething time, so a teething ring may be a good idea, as the cold will help ease some of the pain associated with teething.
Cold Pacifier
Many babies who are teething, especially younger ones, may have trouble holding an object in their mouths long enough to ease the pain. Instead of a teething ring, you can try putting a pacifier in the refrigerator or freezer to make it cold and give it to your baby. It will have the same effect as a teething ring, and your baby will likely have an easier time keeping it in his mouth.
Pain Relievers
If your baby seems in discomfort or has trouble sleeping because of teething, infant pain relievers are an option. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen come in infant formulas and may help ease the swelling and pain associated with teething. Make sure to give your baby the proper dosage for her age and weight. Pain relievers may be especially effective when given to the baby just before bedtime to help her sleep better.
Rubbing Gums
Rubbing your baby's gums with a cold, damp washcloth can help ease some of the pain of teething. Wrap one of your fingers in a cold washcloth and rub it along the top of the baby's gums gently. The rubbing motion, combined with the cold, will help reduce the swelling caused by teething.
Teething Tablets
Teething tablets, a natural alternative to over-the-counter medicines, contain ingredients such as lavender and chamomile to help soothe the gums and calm the child. The small tablets dissolve immediately in the mouth and cover the gums with a coating that is natural and safe to swallow.
