Making the transition from a mouthful of gums to gleaming teeth can be an exciting time in the life of your baby. While the finished transition can be a sight to behold, the time it takes to complete it can be less than pleasurable. When pain relief medication isn't proving to be quite enough for your baby's teething troubles, consider some of the alternative treatments.
Teething Toys
When you aren't quite ready to go the medicinal route for your tot, teething toys may provide some relief. Teething rings can do so by giving your child something to gnaw on. Pop a ring in the freezer to provide extra relief from teething pains. Giving your tot something to chew on may even speed up the teething process, as the pressure can help the new teeth break through the gums.
Homeopathic Tablets and Drops
Babble recommends homeopathic teething tablets for parents who are looking for alternative methods of treatment for their child's teething woes. Melt-away tablets with chamomile, Camilia or Aconite or teething drops containing these things can relieve pain and irritability and relieve swelling in the gums.
Clove Oil
The Parenttime website recommends clove oil for teething babies with sore gums. When applied to the gums, clove oil has a calming, numbing effect that is perfect for the pains associated with cutting teeth. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way, and too much clove oil can sometimes cause digestive discomfort in some babies.
Icy Treats
Frozen treats and ice cubes also can satisfy your baby's need to gnaw and provide some relief from discomfort at the same time. Opt for long, stick-style ice sticks in lieu of traditional cubes to prevent choking. If you would rather use frozen treats, consider mixing up your own sugar-free version at home to save a few dollars at the market and cut back on sugar during such an important time in your child's dental health.
