9 Ways to calm teething: for you and your baby (2024)

FAQs

What is the best way to ease teething pain in babies? ›

Teething may cause mild discomfort and fussiness. “A cold, solid-rubber teether and even a frozen washcloth to chew on can be soothing.” You can also talk with your pediatrician about trying a weight-appropriate dose of acetaminophen (Tylenol), or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) if they're older than 6 months.

Use a clean finger or wet gauze to rub your baby's gums.

Stage 5: (25-33 months) Revenge of the molars! These are the largest teeth, and some children will find this to be the most painful time of teething. Parents may find that what once was soothing is no longer so. Keep trying different methods of comforting the toddler until something works.

With more severe pain she may be almost hysterical and crying even when comforted. This is the time to try the teething remedies you prefer. Many will take a good 20-30 minutes to take effect, particularly medicines like Ibuprofen or paracetamol, during which time you should sit and cuddle her to keep her calm.

In terms of sound, a teething baby crying sounds high-pitched, though maybe not as intense as a baby with colic. They may also be more fussy than usual more generally, even when they aren't actively crying.

If you've chosen to use a pacifier as a soother, you may find that it brings your child some comfort when they're teething. This can be especially useful in between feedings. Pacifiers work the same way toys do, through pressure. But they also comfort children.

Instead of numbing gels or creams, there are safer options for numbing your baby's discomfort. A little while before bedtime, you can try letting your child chew on a damp washcloth that's been in the freezer for 30-60 minutes. Or, you could also try giving them cold, slushy applesauce or frozen fruit.

Teething becomes more intense at night because babies are more aware of their symptoms, like pain and discomfort, when they don't have distractions as they do during the day. Teething pain seems worse at night because infants are exhausted, which makes it harder for them to deal with discomfort.

How long are babies miserable when teething? ›

The truth of the matter is teething is usually a very short lived nightmare that happens for a day or two right as the tooth is actually breaking through the gum and in every case you can actually SEE THE TOOTH emerging. This is the only real clue you need as to whether your baby's discomfort is caused by teeth.

Well — not always. Sometimes teething pain is bad enough to warrant some medicinal relief — and Tylenol is often considered the go-to option, as it's generally safe for young babies. But since teething can last a long time (read: months and months on end), you can't keep your child on a 24/7 infusion of infant Tylenol.

Teething may cause a mildly raised temperature of no more than 38 degrees Celsius. If your baby has a higher temperature, it's usually caused by something other than teething, such as a viral or infectious illness. If you are concerned about your baby's symptoms, contact their health visitor or GP.

Don't be alarmed, teething isn't constant from five to 33 months. In fact, each tooth or pair of teeth should only cause your little one pain for just over a week. In other words, for five days ahead of an appearance – 'eruption day' – and three days afterwards (Macknin et al, 2000).

Give your child anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to reduce pain and swelling. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not give your child very hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks if they increase pain.

Tylenol is preferred for infants under 6 months, while Motrin can be used for children over 6 months. Always read the label carefully and follow the recommended dosage instructions.