Teething is a challenging phase for both babies and parents. As your baby’s teeth begin to emerge through the gums, they often experience discomfort and pain, which can lead to irritability, disrupted sleep, and fussiness. This discomfort affects the whole family, especially when the baby wakes frequently at night due to pain. Finding safe and effective natural remedies to soothe your baby’s teething symptoms can make this period more manageable.
Understanding Teething and Its Symptoms
Teething, medically known as odontiasis, usually starts around 4 to 7 months of age, although some babies may show signs as early as three months. The first teeth to appear are typically the lower central incisors, followed by the upper central incisors, lateral incisors, molars, canines, and second molars. By age three, most children have all their primary teeth.
As teeth push through the gums, babies often show signs of discomfort including:
- Swollen, red gums
- Increased drooling
- Chewing or gnawing on objects
- Decreased appetite
- Irritability and fussiness
- Crying and disturbed sleep
- Rubbing cheeks or pulling ears
More noticeable symptoms can include teething rashes caused by constant drooling, coughing due to saliva trickling down the throat, and biting as the gums become sore.
Why Teething Causes Pain
The pain during teething occurs because the emerging tooth pushes through sensitive gum tissue, causing inflammation, swelling, and soreness. Molars tend to cause more discomfort because of their larger size and surface area.
When to Start Caring for Baby’s Teeth
Dental care should begin even before teeth appear. Wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, moist cloth after feeding helps maintain oral hygiene. Once the first tooth erupts, use an infant-sized toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush twice daily. When two teeth touch, introduce flossing to prevent decay.
Avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle containing milk or formula, as sugars can cause tooth decay. Instead, encourage finishing the bottle before naps or bedtime, and avoid sugary juices.
Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday to ensure early detection and prevention of dental issues.
7 Natural Remedies to Ease Teething Discomfort
1. Breast Milk Ice Cubes
Freezing breast milk into ice cubes offers a soothing, natural way to relieve sore gums. Place the frozen cubes in a mesh feeder or teether for safe chewing. Breastfeeding itself can also comfort your baby, as the sucking motion helps reduce gum pressure. Nursing mothers may benefit from drinking chamomile tea, which can pass calming properties to the baby through breast milk.
2. Frozen or Cool Foods
Cold items like frozen apples, bananas, or carrots can numb inflamed gums and provide relief. Always supervise your baby during feeding and use silicone teethers or mesh feeders to prevent choking. Another popular method is freezing a clean washcloth soaked in caffeine-free chamomile tea or water, which the baby can safely chew on for a soothing effect.
3. Gentle Facial Massage
Massaging your baby’s face can alleviate tension and pain that radiates from the gums to the jaw and ears. Use your fingertips to gently massage above the upper lip, along the chin, and cheeks in circular motions. Lightly stroke the eyebrows with your thumbs to relieve additional tension. This not only soothes discomfort but also strengthens the parent-child bond.
4. Teething Rings and Toys
Safe, non-toxic teething rings made of rubber or silicone provide a satisfying surface for babies to chew on, helping to relieve gum pressure. Wooden teethers sealed with water-based finishes are another option, but ensure they are properly prepared for safety. Refrigerating or freezing teething toys (especially those filled with water) can enhance their soothing effect.
5. Using a Clean Finger
Rubbing a clean finger gently over your baby’s sore gums is a simple and effective way to ease pain. This method allows direct pressure on inflamed areas and can be comforting to the baby. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your baby’s mouth to avoid transferring germs.
6. Baltic Amber Jewelry
Baltic amber necklaces, bracelets, or anklets are traditional remedies believed to release succinic acid through the skin, which some parents claim helps reduce teething pain. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness, and the risk of choking or strangulation from beads is a serious safety concern. Use caution and consult healthcare providers before trying this remedy.
7. Herbal Remedies
Several herbs have been used for centuries to ease teething discomfort:
- Rosehip: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, rosehip tea boosts immunity and has anti-inflammatory effects.
- Chamomile: Known for its calming and soothing properties, chamomile helps reduce irritability and promotes relaxation.
- Catnip: Used to calm fussy babies and encourage restful sleep.
- Clove: Acts as a natural anesthetic to numb gum pain.
Herbal teas can be prepared by steeping one teaspoon of dried herbs in hot water for about seven minutes, then cooling before use. These teas can be given as a drink or used to dampen a washcloth that can be frozen for teething relief. Alternatively, herbal infusions made by simmering herbs in olive oil can be applied topically to the gums.
Final Tips for Managing Teething Pain
Teething is a natural but sometimes uncomfortable process. Using these safe, natural remedies can help reduce your baby’s pain and irritability while avoiding harsh chemicals or medications. Maintaining good oral hygiene and a healthy diet supports your baby’s overall well-being during this time.
Always consult your pediatrician before trying new remedies to ensure they are safe for your baby’s specific needs. With patience and care, your baby will soon move past this phase and enjoy a healthy, happy smile.
