Regardless of whether it's the first milk tooth or your baby is experiencing discomfort from new molars, teething is a transitional period that can be challenging for the whole family. Read on in our post for tips to help babies during teething.

 

Indeed, if we overlook the moments of discomfort and lack of sleep, teething is an exciting new stage for your baby! The child is ready to digest new, more complex foods, now they are ready to learn about dental care and new hygiene procedures, they are growing up. In most children, the first tooth appears at around 6 months (it can happen from 4 to 8 months or even later). For example, my daughter's first tooth only appeared after a year, and this is also a normal variation. Some babies do not experience discomfort from new teeth, while others show signs of discomfort. These include excessive drooling, chewing on their fingers, pulling their ears, night waking, and irritability. Here's how to bond with your baby while helping them through this period:

 

  1. Choose teethers. There are teething options on the market made of completely different materials. Perhaps it's worth trying several options to understand which material will better soothe the baby.

 

What options are there:

Water-filled silicone teethers, probably the most classic option. They can be chilled in the fridge and boiled. However, not all kids like them. But it's worth trying one. The main thing is to choose those made of certified food-grade silicone.

Silicone teething massagers with a textured surface. A good choice if they are made of quality silicone! Easy to clean.

Teething necklaces - a toy and teether at the same time. What I like most about them is the contact with the mother that these beads provide.

Wooden teethers - a light, natural, and safe material that will provide a new texture and aroma experience. Their main advantage is environmental friendliness. The downside is that they require special care. Maintenance will require sanding and oiling. They cannot be boiled or washed, but natural oil will have antibacterial properties and protect against moisture.

Textile comforters and teethers are easy to wash, they are completely safe for the baby. It is important to choose those made of quality fabrics that will not release dye when in contact with saliva.

  1. Hygiene. Many babies produce more saliva during this period than usual, which can lead to red cheeks, rashes, or irritation. Keep burp cloths nearby to quickly and gently wipe away saliva. Use drool bibs. Gentle baby lotion or calendula-based cream can also help relieve cracked skin or rash. Make sure to CONSULT A DOCTOR BEFORE choosing hygiene products. It's useful to have plenty of clean cotton clothing ready (there may be several changes of clothes a day when drooling is particularly active).

It is important not to forget about oral hygiene. Once our dentist advised us to use such wipes for caring for our baby's mouth, and the first teething brushes can be useful during this period. Consult with your pediatrician and pediatric dentist about the use of such products and PREVIOUSLY rule out allergies in the child.

 

 

  1. Do not use sweets as a distraction from pain. It is not worth giving children candy to suck on to distract them from pain, as this can affect their appetite, which is already disrupted by pain and discomfort. Instead, the child may need more contact with parents, games, rocking, lullabies, massage, walks. There may be an increased need for breastfeeding for comfort, which may sometimes annoy us, but consider it as a very effective way to help the baby now, because no one else cares for them like you do. Therefore, it is not worth planning to wean breastfeeding during the teething period.

 

  1. Use over-the-counter medications. In my opinion, we should always consult a doctor before applying something to the baby or giving them something, even if a prescription is not required. Very often in forums and blogs, I see recommendations for homeopathic remedies for this period. I want to urge you to always choose such remedies with a doctor if you still decide to use them. It would be very interesting to hear your position on these remedies?

 

 

On Bavka, you can also find such materials to help in this delicate period of life:

Topponcino

Will help for convenient carrying of the baby, who will need more time in your arms. Now the baby can even fall asleep on you, so with Topponcino, it will be easier to transfer them to their own crib and pick them up during the night.

 

Comforter Will soothe the baby during fabric manipulation and will serve as a safe teether.

 

Montessori grasping beads Kids love to massage their gums, which are bothered by convenient beads.

 

Montessori interlocking disks A safe and convenient item that the baby can easily put in their mouth.

Knitted rings and Rustling cloth The tight knitting will become a favorite gum massager, and the comforter will attract with its sound, serving as a stress-relief toy.