Teething often begins around 6 months and may cause drooling, irritability, sore gums, chewing, trouble sleeping and other symptoms. The first set of teeth to erupt usually cause the most severe symptoms, but many babies experience little or no discomfort during teething. Some babies, however, may have a very difficult experience every time new teeth come in. Fortunately, there are things you can do at home to soothe a teething baby and reduce her irritability and pain.
Step 1
Wash your hands in soap and warm water and then rub your finger back and forth across your baby's sore gums. The gentle massage provides soothing counter pressure and encourages erupting teeth to break through the gums. A damp washcloth makes a good alternative to your finger if your baby likes to bite down during the gum massage.
Step 2
Chill a damp washcloth or a firm rubber teething ring in the freezer and offer it to your baby to chew on. The cold will soothe and numb her pain. Keep several in the freezer at all times so that one is always ready for your baby.
Step 3
Cool your baby's spoon and food before feedings if she is old enough to eat solid foods. Chilled bananas, applesauce, pureed carrots and yogurt will feel good against your baby's painful gums. Allow your baby to gum the chilled spoon between bites.
Step 4
Dress your baby in a bib to protect her chest and clothing from teething drool, and dry her face and neck frequently with a soft towel to prevent the development of a drooling rash. If she drools excessively during teething, place an absorbent pad beneath her when she sleeps and has tummy time on the floor.
Step 5
Give your teething baby an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if her teething pain interferes with eating or sleeping. Never exceed the recommended dose of these medications and always consult your pediatrician before using these drugs to treat teething pain.
Step 6
Try a numbing gel on your baby's gums, with your pediatrician's permission. These medications are only temporarily effective and pose several serious risks to your baby. Gels containing benzocaine can increase the risk of choking and may cause a serious blood disorder called methemoglobinemia, according to the American Dental Association.
Things You'll Need
- Small washcloth
- Firm teething ring
- Bib
- Absorbent pad
- Infant ibuprofen
- Teething gel
