Teething Hacks: 5 That Don’t Work (& 5 That Do)
The first word, first step, and first tooth – these are some of the milestones in a baby’s life that every new parent looks forward to. We also know that a newborn needs encouragement and support from parents to get there. An infant’s ability to communicate is limited. The baby might be struggling through these stages with no way of expressing the pain. Luckily for parents, we understand these struggles with the guidance of pediatricians and experts. There are ways in which we can ease the baby’s distress when they are starting to teeth. However, not every advice is practical and effective. Here is a list of hacks that work and those that don’t:
What Doesn’t Work
1. Ice
Ice is our go-to solution for everything pain-related. Even though it works great for us adults, be cautious when you use this on babies. All parts of the baby are delicate, including gums and digestive tracts. Exposing it to something as cold as ice may not be the best thing to do. Also, there is a great danger of choking.
2. Rubbing Alcohol
Alcohol is strong, no matter how less an amount you use. Exposing a newborn to alcohol, even as a measure to relieve pain, is not recommended. The gut lining of infants is delicate and sensitive to anything intense. So this method might bring unintended harm.
3. Clove Oil
Don’t fall for this myth. Clove oil is not very effective in relieving the pain of teething. Those who have used clove oil before would know that it is pungent and intense. It could bring more distress to the baby than ease.
4. Pain Relief Medication
Some parents resort to pain relief medication like benzocaine. Instead of relieving pain, this might prove to be harmful to the little ones. It might be too early for babies to be on medication such as this. Do thorough research, and don’t forget to consult a pediatrician before using any medicine.
5. Teething Necklaces
Teething necklaces are gaining popularity. Teething bracelets and necklaces are usually made of amber, marble, or silicone. But there is no scientific proof of their effectiveness. In addition to that, these could prove to be lethal as they are a choking and strangulation hazard.
What Does Work
1. Distractions
The best way to beat pain is to take your mind off it. Everyone knows that, and it is valid for babies too. It is best to be with your baby and distract the baby from the pain in the most natural way possible.
2. Teething Toys
Teething toys actually work. If you do some research, you are likely to find a teething toy that might soothe your young one instead of bringing harm. Make sure that the toys you choose are of the best quality. Teething toys work the same as massaging the gums and are a great alternative.
3. Breast Milk
For an infant, breast milk is the cure for most problems. That is why we consider it the elixir. This will soothe the infant for at least a little while, in addition to providing the nutrition required to sprout healthy teeth.
4. Rubbing the Gums
The best way to relieve pain is to put pressure in the area where it hurts. In the case of a baby who is teething, it is the gums. Gently rubbing the baby’s gum will comfort the baby. Do this regularly until the baby pulls through the teething phase.
5. Cool Washcloth
A cold, sanitized washcloth is one of the things that will help the baby through this tough phase. Let the baby chew on a clean, soft cloth that is cold enough to bring some relief to the pain. Be extra careful to make sure that the cloth is free of dust and germs.
Teething is a good sign that your baby is growing right and healthy. It is also the start of a beautiful journey of a new life. Make sure you cherish it and take care to be there for your baby through the ups and downs of their life. How did you help your baby through the teething phase? Share with us.
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