Don’t fall for the teething trap
Many products that claim to ease teething pain in babies and toddlers don't actually work, and some can even be dangerous.
Teething can be distressing for some babies and toddlers. That’s because when a new tooth pushes its way through the gum, it can cause swelling and pain.
If your child is irritable due to teething, it’s natural to search for items, gels, powders, and necklaces that are said to reduce teething pain. However, parents need to note that not all teething products work as well as they claim to.
Teething gels and powders
Teething gels and powders usually contain various ingredients that help relieve supposed teething-related symptoms. While very little gel is absorbed into the body when applied to the gums, minor complications like vomiting have been reported after giving teething gels to infants.
Homoeopathic teething solutions
While searching for “natural” teething therapies, some parents are turning to amber necklaces that supposedly relieve teething symptoms. Amber is a fossilised tree resin that has historically been suggested to have anti-inflammatory properties. However, several widely reported strangulation cases have led to warnings about teething necklaces.
Applying alcohol on baby’s gums
You may have heard that applying a drop of whiskey to your baby’s gums can relieve teething pain. It’s an old wives’ tale that was long accepted as a reasonable form of pain relief. Unsurprisingly, modern physicians strongly advise against it. Though it appears to be a small amount of alcohol, it is significant when considering the baby’s size. Alcohol is highly harmful to babies; even tiny amounts could result in serious developmental issues and defects.
How to ease teething pain
Try massaging your baby’s gums with a cold washcloth or applying pressure with your fingers. Anything cold will help numb the sore spots. Silicone teething rings work well, especially when chilled. Remember that while teething can be a difficult time, it will eventually pass. In the meantime, parents must avoid falling prey to supposed cures that are unproven and potentially dangerous.
When to get expert help
If your little one seems miserable for several days in a row and you still don’t see a tooth, then there’s probably something else going on. Reach out to your child’s doctor who can establish whether teething is really behind your child’s symptoms and, if so, the best ways to help your baby.
