Toothaches are no fun! The pain makes us cranky and is all we can think about. So, just think about the pain when those teeth start emerging through baby gums. No wonder they are cranky and hard to soothe.
Teething rings that have been chilled can soothe sore gums and help the baby. Their cold plastic numbs the gums, the baby chews on the firm surface, putting soothing pressure on the gums. An alternative to babies who don’t like teething rings is offering a cold washcloth to chew. It’s a matter of cold and the pressure of chewing that relieves the pain. Another option could be freezing breast milk into little popsicles for inflamation relief.
Later, as toddlers, molars come in and teething rings may not help. There are infant-formula over-the-counter pain-relievers available to rub onto the gum and emerging tooth. It’s a fast-acting topical anesthetic and can provide quick relief. Products like Baby Orajel can numb the tongue and cause swalling issues. You may want to check what your pediatrician recommends.
Before turning to infant pain relievers (acetaminophen/Tylenol or ibuprofen/Motrin) check with your doctor. With teething, there is not only pain but inflammation and swelling of the gums along with sometimes rise in a baby’s temperature. This is where pain relievers can help, but again your physician should be part of this decision. If your baby is having issues with eating and drinking-related to teething make sure your doctor knows this so they can provide the best possible options for you.
Teething is one of those situations where pain can come and go. This means keeping an eye on peeks of pain that interferes with your baby’s eating, drinking, and general well-being so you can let your pediatrician know. Typically once the tooth emerges the pain and related issues usually decline in intensity.
