Odontiasis, or teething, is a normal period that happens to any baby starting on average between four to six months into their life. It is a process in which their teeth begin to punch through their gums and become usable. While this process is important for them, it is also one that is extremely uncomfortable and can be painful for them.
Luckily, there are ways to soothe and help your baby during this time period to allow them to experience as little discomfort as possible. You will never be able to fully reduce all of the pain, just make it easier for them. At the same time, recognize with teething that there are signs that are normal, and signs that are not normal for them to exhibit.
If at any point your baby develops a fever, rash, or diarrhea, take them to a pediatrician and have them examined. Understanding teething is an important step as it will allow you to get your baby to get the help they need during this time period. Here are some ways on how you can help your baby during teething.
Rub the Gums
One of the first and best ways that you can help your baby during teething is to rub their gums. To do this, either clean your finger or grab a wet piece of gauze and rub the gums of your child gently back and forth. This will help alleviate some of the discomfort they are feeling and help them relax for a short period of time. Rubbing their gums is also a completely safe method to use provided that you have cleaned your finger or the object you are using is sterile.
Cool Them Off
Using a cool spoon (make sure that it is not frozen) or a chilled teething ring on your baby can be soothing to them. Once again, just like rubbing the gums, it will provide a temporary solution to the problem. It is important that you do not dip these objects in sugar like some places suggest, as doing this can result in your baby having cavities. Using a clean chilled object is a great way to provide relief and help your baby relax.
Over the Counter Solutions
Next, look to use an over the counter pain medication for your baby. Something like Tylenol or Advil is a great remedy for them and will help them relax. Consult with the pharmacist when you are buying them as they can advise you on a healthy dose for a baby.
At the same time, look to avoid things like topical gels or teething tablets. The benefits of these have not yet been demonstrated and some lab studies have shown that using them can lead to greater health problems for your babies. Look for pain killers for your baby, but always be careful and mindful of what you are buying and what you are giving to them.
A Visit to the Doctor’s
While teething is a common thing and all babies undergo it, sometimes they might suffer more than normal. This is extremely difficult to determine however, as your baby has no real method of communicating other than crying. That being said, as a parent, you generally have an idea of when your baby is in much more discomfort than normal.
If you are sensing that it is much worse than the standard discomfort, do not be afraid to take your baby into a pediatrician. They will be able to take a look at them and determine if anything can be done for them. This way you can relax knowing your baby is getting the care it needs. Do not be afraid to take a visit just to clear things up. As people always say, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Distractions
Finally, one of the best and easiest ways to distract your baby from their discomfort would be to play with them and provide a distraction. If they are having fun, they won’t be thinking of everything that is going on. This will once again provide them with relief for a short period of time. If you aren’t able to use a spoon or anything, simply playing with your baby and providing a distraction is a great way to relieve them of their discomfort.
By following these tips, you should be able to help your baby as they are teething. Make sure to monitor them and react when you think things are becoming a little too intense for them. Find what measures work for your baby also and use them often. How do you plan on helping your baby during teething?
