Our Concord Pediatric Dentist Explains How to Help a Teething Baby

Although some babies may experience very little or even no discomfort while teething, many do, resulting in excessive drooling, inconsolable crying, and a decreased appetite. If your child seems irritable or in pain, here are some tried-and-tested tips that can help him or her feel better, from our Concord pediatric dentist.

Chilled Fruit

Once you’ve introduced your baby to solid foods, you can help soothe their sore gums with a tasty snack of chilled mashed fruit, such as bananas. To help prevent choking, place the fruit in a mesh feeder, and give that to your baby to lick or suck on. Mashed apples, strawberries, mangoes, or ripe pears are also good options.

Cold Washcloths

Take a clean washcloth and submerge it in water, wring it out somewhat, and place it in the fridge. Once the cloth has sufficiently frozen, fold it and give to your baby to chew on. While this is generally a safe practice, it’s advised not to leave your child unattended while he or she is sucking on the cloth.

A Cool Metal Spoon

Cool metal can be soothing on aching gums. Grab a teaspoon from your kitchen drawer and put it in the fridge, and once it is cool, rub the back of it gently against your baby’s gums. A clean, chilled, non-gel-filled teething toy can also provide some relief.

Wipe Away Drool

One of the main signs of teething is drooling, which can irritate the skin. Keep your baby’s face clean and dry by wiping it periodically, and protect their clothing with soft cloth bibs.

Ask Our Concord Pediatric Dentist About Medication

If you have tried the above methods, and still have not been able to soothe your baby’s teething pains, you may want to consult a Concord pediatric dentist about using pain medications. Do not administer pain relievers without first consulting a doctor or pediatric dentist.

Afton Pediatric Dentistry is a pediatric dentist serving infants, children, adolescents and teenagers in Concord NC. To schedule an appointment, please contact us here.