5 Ways to Soothe A Teething Baby

As a parent, it's heartbreaking to witness your little one in discomfort during the teething process. Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, as the pain and discomfort can lead to sleepless nights and cranky days. But fear not, because there are plenty of tricks up your sleeve to help make those teething woes a thing of the past! Check out these five tried-and-true tips to bring some relief to your teething baby:

1. Gentle Massage

Treat your little one to a gentle gum massage using your clean finger. The soothing pressure can work wonders by boosting blood flow and easing inflammation, giving those teething gums some much-needed relief.

2. Give your baby frozen teething feeders 

One effective method is to use silicone feeders filled with frozen treats. Simply fill the feeder with frozen fruit, puree, ice, breast milk, yoghurt, or any other suitable filling. Ensure the contents are pre-frozen, as the feeder's design prevents direct freezing of liquids. Using small ice trays to pre-freeze the materials can streamline the process. Should any mess occur, our Sticky Stopper can easily help you with the cleanup.

We love this hack because not only does it keep your baby busy, but soothes their pain with the cold, while giving them a snack. Additionally, the chewing action can alleviate pain and offer a distraction for their hands and mouths. Try teething snacks

3. Try teething snacks

For babies who have begun their solid food journey, teething biscuits offer a fantastic solution. These biscuits are specially crafted to stimulate and soothe their gums as they navigate the teething process.

We love Bickiepegs, a renowned UK brand dedicated to addressing children's oral health requirements. While numerous brands offer teething biscuits, you can also opt to bake them yourself at home for a personalised touch. However, always ensure that your child is ready to consume such biscuits, and as with any feeding activity, maintain constant supervision.

Here are some additional tips and insights for incorporating teething snacks into your baby's routine:

• Choose Wisely: Opt for teething biscuits with natural ingredients and no additives. Ensure the size and texture are safe for your baby to handle.
• Consider Homemade: Explore homemade teething biscuit recipes, being mindful of allergens and introducing new ingredients gradually.
• Prioritise Safety: Confirm your baby is ready for solids and supervise them closely while eating teething biscuits to prevent choking.
• Explore Alternatives: If teething biscuits aren't preferred, offer chilled fruits or vegetables like frozen banana slices or carrot sticks.
• Maintain Hygiene: Keep teething snacks fresh by storing them properly and maintaining cleanliness during preparation.
• Seek Professional Advice: Consult your GP if you have concerns or encounter any issues with teething snacks for personalised guidance.

4. Try teething toys and accessories 

During teething, babies often alleviate discomfort by chewing on various objects. Fortunately, a wide array of toys and accessories specifically designed for teething exist, sparing both typical toys and caregivers' fingers from constant chewing. Crafted with baby safety in mind, these items prioritise materials like silicone, cotton, natural wood, or rubber, avoiding potentially harmful substances such as plastic or vinyl. 

Some teething products, like teething bibs such as the Neckerchews by Cheeky Chompers, are made in the UK (and on Dragons’ Den just like us!). The design allows the cloth to absorb any dribbling spit while the teether is in use (or just hanging downwards like a usual bib). Plus, it’s way harder for a baby to drop a bib than a toy! It will not only provide relief but also serve practical functions by absorbing dribble. This innovative design reduces the risk of babies dropping them compared to traditional teething toys.

5. Providing Distraction

Offering your baby engaging activities can often help alleviate teething discomfort. Encourage them with enjoyable pastimes like singing, playing with toys, or taking a stroll in the stroller. Redirecting their attention can effectively shift their focus away from the discomfort of teething.

Additional Tips:

• Interactive Play: Engage your baby in interactive play sessions with colourful toys or rattles to captivate their attention and distract them from teething discomfort.
• Outdoor Exploration: If weather permits, take your baby outdoors for a change of scenery. The sights and sounds of nature can provide a refreshing distraction from teething discomfort.
• Music Therapy: Play soothing music or nursery rhymes to create a calming atmosphere for your baby. Music can be a powerful tool to divert their attention and ease teething woes.
• Baby Massage: Consider gentle baby massage techniques to relax your little one and alleviate teething discomfort. Focus on areas like the jawline and temples to provide soothing relief.
• Story Time: Reading aloud to your baby can be an enjoyable distraction from teething pain. Choose colourful, interactive books with textured pages to keep them engaged.

Remember to observe your baby's cues and preferences to tailor the distraction techniques effectively. The goal is to create a positive and comforting environment to help them navigate through the teething phase with ease.

If your baby's discomfort continues despite trying home remedies, or if you notice any unusual symptoms like fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, it's crucial to consult your GP right away. They can provide personalised guidance on appropriate medicinal solutions or other interventions to ensure your baby's well-being. I hope this is more helpful and reassuring. Wishing you and your baby all the best!