Guest post contributed by Hannah Whittenly
It’s never comfortable watching your baby go through the teething process and feel extremely uncomfortable. While it’s a normal part of every baby’s development, it’s still hard to see them endure so much pain. There are a few things to remember when it’s time you’re dealing with a baby who’s in the middle of teething.
Visit the Dentist
There’s nothing like a visit to the dentist to get clarity on the teething process, what to expect and how long it can last. The right dentist will give you the tools and knowledge you need to help your baby push through the discomfort. This is especially true when the first tooth pushes up. Since so much pain is involved, dentists typically prescribe a soothing balm that you can rub on the baby’s gums.
Use Chew Toys
Chew toys can be very helpful because they offer a sense of comfort when the gums feel irritated. Many babies tend to really like cold chew toys. When the cool sensation makes contact with the gums, it leads to a sense of relief. A popsicle or a cold spoon will do the same trick as well.
Use Teething Jewelry
There are two types of teething jewelry to consider. Many parents purchase necklaces for their babies to wear. These necklaces allow the babies to feel a little relief during the discomfort. Baltic amber teething necklaces have become popular over the years because amber is a stone that is known to help with pain and inflammation. Many people use it to treat headaches as well. The active ingredient is succinic acid which is said to have the same effect as ibuprofen. Alternatively, parents wear teething jewelry instead of putting it on their children. There are companies that design fashionable pieces that parents can wear. When children want to cuddle because they’re cranky and in pain, they can grab the parent’s necklace and chew on it for relief.
Exercise Patience
Above anything else, it’s important to remember to exercise copious doses of patience. When your child is in a lot of pain, they’re probably going to be cranky and unpleasant to be around. Do your best to soothe and be a source of comfort for them. Be attentive and be proactive. Always keep the soothing gels, necklaces and other teething tools close by.
The teething process isn’t easy. Just know that it doesn’t last forever. As a parent, do your best to be supportive during this time. In most cases, teething children can’t talk so they can’t adequately communicate their feelings. So random outbursts, tantrums, and meltdowns are usually the instinctual reactions when they’re dealing with pain. They will calm down, but just make sure you help them get to that place by following these tips. Before long, teething will be a distant memory.
