On the one hand, it’s a good sign of development, and means baby will soon be able to cope with solid food. On the other hand, that cute, toothy smile can be accompanied by weeks or months of dribbling, hand chewing, and extra grizzlies, all typical signs of teething.
While in the teething phase, your poor little baby might resemble a peach with bright red cheeks. He or she may be generally miserable, and their poos are likely to be a horrible acidy mess, accompanied by added nappy rash.
Some babies may not be affected as badly as others, but all in all, it’ll probably make for a pretty lousy time for both you and your little one.
Teething tips
Though you can’t avoid all teething traumas, there are ways to help them though it:
- Use a teething gel or teething powder. Apply one that contains a mild local anaesthetic. This can help to numb any pain or discomfort caused by teething, and may also contain antiseptic ingredients to prevent infection in any sore or broken skin in the mouth.
- Offer teething toys. Teething toys and jewellery offer your baby something to chew safely. Baby teething accessories are safe and soft enough for a baby to chew to ease their discomfort and distract them from any pain.
- Give paracetamol or ibuprofen. If your baby appears to be in pain or has a raised temperature, you can give a sugar-free painkiller specifically for babies and young children. Always read the instructions and make sure you administer the correct dosage.
- Allow them to chew foods. If your baby has already begun to wean onto solid foods, you can give them healthy snacks to chew on, such as raw fruit and vegetables or a breadstick. Always stay close when your baby is eating though, to prevent choking.
- Comfort your baby. When your child isn’t feeling themselves, what they really need is extra cuddles and comfort. You may find this is day and night, but it is completely normal, so put the chores on hold, cancel your plans, and enjoy some extra bonding time. Your child will certainly appreciate it.
- Once the first tooth appears start brushing using a baby toothbrush. This can also help ease teething discomfort.
If you use teething toys, make sure they are used under adult supervision, and are non-toxic, free from BPA and PVC. The best ones are made of 100 percent food-grade silicone or natural wood, and are safe to use in freezers, the dishwasher and sterilisers.
Nibbling’s extensive range of plastic-free teething toys, necklaces and accessories combine fashion with practicality. The range of teething toys, natural wood teethers, dummy clips, pram mobiles and teething necklaces are stylish, hygienic and safe, heat-resistant, safe for the dishwasher or hand-washing, microwave and freezer, and are CE tested. Ranges include the award-winning Natural Collection, the super-cute Forest Friend teethers, The Royal Range teething toys and the popular Dummy Clips.
Visit www.nibbling.co.uk to find out more.
Instragram: @nibblinguk
See Also: Tackle Teething and Long Term Dental Care For Your Child
