As a parent, you might agree that teething can be an extremely difficult time for everyone in your home. Not only is your baby unhappy and uncomfortable because of the pain, but you are likely lacking the necessary sleep in an attempt to soothe and calm your little one. Because this time frame can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years, you may be desperate for effective solutions. Fortunately, your child’s pediatric dentist is here to offer beneficial tips that will help your baby achieve relief from the pain and better sleep.
Apply Gentle Pressure to Their Gums
When teeth begin to push through your baby’s soft oral tissues, it can be uncomfortable, to say the least. As a parent, you hate to see and hear your little one cry, but what can you do? An effective way to temporarily relieve pain and help your baby sleep is to thoroughly clean your hands and use one finger to gently rub their gums before bed. By applying a gentle amount of pressure, this will help to create a soothing sensation, allowing them to wind down. Just make sure you keep your nails cut short, as you don’t want to accidentally scrape your baby’s gums.
Try Cold Teethers and Other Teething Toys
Applying anything cold to your baby’s gums will help to create a numbing effect, effectively reducing pain and allowing them to more easily drift off to sleep. Whether it is chewing on a clean, damp, wet washcloth or offering sugar-free applesauce (if they’re old enough), the cold will be a welcome relief. If opting to give your little one a washcloth, simply place it in the freezer for 30 minutes or one hour beforehand. If you prefer to use teething rings, it’s best to avoid those that contain liquid, as they can become damaged and begin to leak. If your child is a bit older, you can also give them frozen fruit but be sure to clean their teeth before helping them to bed.
Don’t Be Afraid to Use Pain Medication
Sometimes, even after using teethers, cold washcloths, and gentle pressure, the discomfort can still be too much for your little one. Should this be your situation, don’t be afraid to ask your child’s pediatrician or pediatric dentist about the use of an over-the-counter pain reliever. As long as your little one is at least 6 months of age, you can give them infant Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Just make sure to provide the correct dosage. Also, avoid any products that contain benzocaine (i.e., Baby Orajel), as they can be dangerous for children under the age of 2.
Maintain Your Child’s Normal Bedtime Routine
It may be tempting to hold your baby a bit longer before bed or wake them throughout the night to give them another dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen, but this well-intentioned act of love might actually be more problematic for your little one. It’s important to keep your baby on a regular sleep schedule. By sticking to their routine and giving yourself plenty of time to make them comfortable, it will help them to not only self-cope but also more easily adjust to the expectations you set when it comes to bedtime.
Teething is not an easy time in your child’s life, but it can be far more manageable by incorporating these simple tips into their daily life. By reaching for the appropriate products and seeking the help of your child’s pediatric dentist, this difficult phase can become at least a little bit easier.
About the Author
At Brush Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Mira Albert leads a team of Hinsdale pediatric dentists who make it possible for little ones to achieve healthier smiles. Offering a fun and exciting environment filled with kid-friendly amenities, our team is more than happy to work alongside you and your child to ensure their oral health remains right on track. When living with a teething baby, we understand how hard it can be, which is why we are here to provide tips designed to help your little one get the relief and rest they need. Contact us at (630) 504-2223 if you have a teething baby at home and need assistance.