It’s a rite of passage for parents to celebrate all the little developments their babies make. Whether that’s how they rolled to their side all on their own, said their first word, or took their first steps, The same goes for when they start teething. But as fun and exciting as it is to see your little ones grow, teething can be quite uncomfortable and frustrating for both the baby and the parent. That’s where natural teething remedies come in. There are a number of safe and effective natural remedies for teething that can help relieve teething pain and discomfort. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best natural teething remedies as well as some additional tips for helping your baby through this challenging time. But before we move on to these points, let’s first understand what teething is!
Understanding teething and its symptoms
Teething is nature’s way, an inevitable process wherein baby teeth gradually emerge through the gums. It’s an ordinary part of their growth journey, with most babies embarking on this journey between 4 to 7 months. However, there’s room for variation, as some may commence as early as 3 months, while others may encounter it around the age of 12 months.
With every emerging tooth, an array of symptoms might arise, causing varying levels of discomfort. Here are some common signals to be mindful of:
- Overflowing Drool: Excessive drooling often marks the beginning of teething, potentially leading to skin irritation around the mouth and chin.
- Fussiness: Discomfort can lead to irritability, causing your little one to be fussier than usual.
- Swollen Gums: The gums might become tender and swollen as the teeth work their way out.
- Sleep Interruptions: Teething discomfort can disrupt sleep patterns, resulting in shorter naps and more wakeful nights.
Natural teething remedies for instant comfort and relief
1. Chilled Teething Toys
One of the first natural teething remedies that reduces discomfort is a cooled teething toy. This straightforward yet effective approach can alleviate your baby’s gum irritation. Opt for teething toys free from BPA to prioritise your baby’s safety. Just briefly refrigerate the toys and allow the coolness to provide relief as your baby chews on them.
2. Cold Washcloth
A cold washcloth is one of the best natural teething remedies for soothing sore gums. Dampen a clean washcloth and briefly place it in the freezer. Then, let your baby chew on the chilled cloth, benefiting from its cold and textured fabric that offers gentle relief.
3. Gently Massaging Gums
Easing discomfort and providing relief for your baby can be achieved through gentle gum massage. Begin by ensuring your hands are thoroughly clean. Then, use a clean finger to gently massage your baby’s gums in a circular motion. The counterpressure helps significantly reduce soreness and irritation, making it one of the finest natural teething remedies.
4. Teething Rings
Designed for safe and satisfying chewing, teething rings should be made from natural rubber or silicone. Refrigerate the teething ring (avoid freezing) to provide cold comfort for your baby’s gums through its textured surface and chilly temperature.
5. Amber Teething Necklaces (Supervision Required)
Amber Teething Necklaces (Supervision Required) While controversial, some believe that amber teething necklaces offer natural pain relief. If you opt for one, choose a reputable source for a genuine amber necklace. Ensure your baby only wears it under close supervision to mitigate any potential risks.
6. Chamomile Tea
When it comes to natural teething remedies, Chamomile tea can effectively ease teething discomfort due to its soothing properties. Prepare a gentle chamomile tea and allow it to cool down. Dip a clean cloth into the cooled tea and freeze it. Applying the chilled chamomile cloth to your baby’s gums can provide relief.
7. Coconut Oil
Renowned for its natural anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil stands as one of the top natural teething remedies. Clean your hands and apply a small amount of organic coconut oil to your finger. Gently rub the oil on your baby’s gums for a soothing effect.
8. Mesh Feeders
Mesh Feeders Mesh feeders offer a creative way to relieve discomfort while introducing new flavours to your baby. Opt for soft, age-appropriate fruits such as bananas or melons. Freeze the mesh feeder to provide your baby with cold and textured fruit to gnaw on
General tips for comfort
Apart from these natural teething remedies, there are several general approaches to comfort your teething baby:
- Warm Embrace: Your cuddles and comforting words can work wonders in easing your baby’s distress.
- Distraction: New toys, games, or activities can divert your baby’s attention from discomfort.
- Hydration: Keeping your baby well-hydrated through breastfeeding or bottle feeding can provide both comfort and essential nutrients.
When to consult a pediatrician?
While natural teething remedies can alleviate discomfort, specific signs warrant medical attention:
1, Elevated Fever: Teething might cause a minor temperature rise, but a high fever could indicate another health issue.
- Severe Digestive Issues: Teething should not lead to severe diarrhoea or vomiting; consult a paediatrician if these symptoms emerge.
- Excessive Rash: Mild drool-induced rashes are normal, but a medical professional should examine severe rashes.
- Extreme Distress: If the natural remedies aren’t providing relief and your baby’s distress is overwhelming, consulting a paediatrician is advised.
Conclusion
Teething is a temporary phase in your baby’s growth journey. While it can be challenging, numerous natural teething remedies can provide comfort and relief. From chilled teething toys to chamomile tea, each child is unique, so you might need to try various approaches to find what works best for your little one. You can also use cooling gels and liquid for long-lasting results, which should be done after consulting an expert. You can check out trusted platforms like iHerb for soothing gels and dissolving tablets that can greatly comfort your baby. By being attentive to your baby’s needs, using natural teething remedies, and seeking medical guidance when necessary, you can help your baby navigate the teething process with minimal discomfort. For more such updates, visit Nowandlive.