When your baby is teething, he experiences confusing and painful sensations, and you must deal with a sad or grumpy child. Although you might feel frustrated with his fussiness, you also desperately want to ease his pain and soothe his poor aching gums. Remind yourself that teething is a normal babyhood process, as Brigham and Women's Hospital notes; it equips your baby for eating healthy solid foods, and it won't last forever.
Gnawing on Cold Things
Give your baby something cold to suck and chew. The coldness numbs the gums a little, and the gnawing helps massage them. New York University's Langone Medical Center suggests using teething rings or washcloths wet with cold water. If you use a teething ring or other rubber toy, only put it in the refrigerator, not the freezer. Freezing the toy, warns the Center, could make it dangerously hard. Also avoid two-piece rings, which pose a choking hazard, and liquid-filled rings, which could burst. You can also try chilling your baby's pacifier or giving her cold foods that are appropriate for her age, the University of Florida Extension advises.
Rub or Massage the Gums
Gently rub your baby's sore gums with your finger, recommends Brigham and Women's Hospital. This helps soothe the gums, just as a massage soothes sore muscles. Clean your hands before putting them in your baby's mouth, or use a clean toothbrush.
Teething Gels and Tablets
Teething tablets or gels can help minimize your baby's discomfort, notes the University of Florida Extension. These products work by numbing the gums so that the baby no longer feels the pain. But although the tablets and gels relieve some pain, the University of Michigan Health System warns that they could upset or harm your baby. Some babies dislike the numbness, and if your baby swallows the tablet or gel, then his throat could become unpleasantly or dangerously numb.
Pain Reliever
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests giving your unhappy baby an age-appropriate pain reliever, such as acetaminophen. This effective remedy, primarily marketed under the name Tylenol, prevents your baby's nervous system from experiencing so much pain. Before giving the medication to your baby, however, ask her pediatrician for permission and usage guidelines.
Attention and Comfort
Your child is experiencing sadness and confusion, as well as pain, reminds the University of Florida Extension, so give him plenty of comfort and love. The University of Michigan Health System also recommends trying to distract your baby with entertaining activities, such as songs, rocking and conversation. Treat your baby's extra fussiness with patience and compassion; your reassuring, consoling demeanor will help him calm down and relax.
