Which teething products?

Which teething products?

There are various teething products on the market, which some parents absolutely swear by. As with most things when it comes to children though, what works for one doesn’t always suit another!

Which medicines or products can help?

Teething gels

When buying a teething gel make sure you choose one that is suitable for babies. Ask your pharmacist for advice and always follow the instructions that come with any medicines.

Baby teething gels usually contain a mild analgesic which can temporarily ease or numb the area. Some also have gentle antiseptic properties, which can help prevent infections in broken skin. A few babies are allergic to teething gels, so look out for any reactions.

It is best not to use these just before a feed, as they can numb your baby’s mouth, making it hard to feed. If you are breastfeeding they can also numb the skin around the nipples, which can interfere with feeding.

Teething granules or powders

Many parents recommend homeopathic teething granules, which can be poured directly into babies’ mouths. Be aware that some of these contain lactose or other forms of sugar that can contribute to tooth decay. So check the ingredients and use sparingly if your baby already has any teeth, so as not to be constantly coating them in anything sugar-based.

Infant paracetamol

If nothing seems to be working and your child seems to be in pain you could try using infant paracetamol. Remember though that ear infections and other viral or bacterial infections are sometimes confused with teething symptoms. So if your baby seems unwell, has a high temperature, or if you have any doubts at all, speak to your doctor.

Always use medicine suitable for your baby’s age and never exceed the dose stated on the bottle.

Find out more about suitable baby medicines here.

Dentist Natasha Roberts says: “It’s fine to use paracetamol-based children’s medication but if you are not happy to use medication there are many teething gels and powders on the market. There are also many natural aids to teething available”.
 

Teething tips

How to soothe those sore gums:

  1. Babies who are teething like to bite on something hard such as a teething ring.
  2. Try offering a dried crust of bread, or a scrubbed carrot - but stay close in case of choking.
  3. Avoid sugary rusks and biscuits.
  4. Rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help
  5. Pat his face dry with a soft clean cloth if he dribbles a lot, so that his skin doesn’t become sore.
  6. Teething gels may help, but keep a watch as they can cause allergies in some babies.
  7. Some medicines are suitable from 2 months. Always read the label.

Comments

Submitted by cookiemonsta21 on Tue, 31/01/2012 - 17:16.
My daughter started teething at fourteen weeks and now has sixteen teeth at eighteen months. Teething gel worked best but when she was bad with them used ambesol liquid. Hoping the worst is over now lol x
Submitted by Poggla on Wed, 25/01/2012 - 18:53.
i used anbesol wiv my 3rd, its a liquid u rub on gums, 4,95 a bottle but works gr8, is antiseptic/anatheastic. my lg 1 and 5 and 6 tooth soon b making an appearance
Submitted by jenjensjellybean on Sat, 10/12/2011 - 23:49.
My baby girl is 7 weeks old and i think shes teething does any1 know the age they have to be to use ashton parsons teething powders?? i used them with my 5 year old but cant remember the age limit thank you xxxx
Submitted by helena1994 on Fri, 02/12/2011 - 00:27.
My daughter is 7 weeks old on sunday and is already teething. Shes been teething for the last 2 weeks and now we cant seem to settle her at all during the night. She will go 9 hours with only crying. we'll give her a bottle or a dummy and she will cry with it in her mouth. Shes not able to hold a teether and she is not yet old enough for Bonjela...Can anyone else suggest anything for it?
Submitted by Posie1977 on Wed, 23/11/2011 - 17:21.
My baby cut his first 2 teeth at 15 weeks (3.5 months). I think this is early?
Submitted by NuffinMuffin on Thu, 03/11/2011 - 12:40.
My daughter is 3 months and shes already has two coming through .. relatives suggested getting these tablets New Era.. they melt in the mouth quickly and they really help ..We also use a bit of gel Calgel ... My baby has never been one to cry but as soon as the teeth came it was horrible .. i highly recommend these as they really did put her pains at ease !!
Submitted by chazz92 on Tue, 01/11/2011 - 17:23.
my daughter just got her first tooth through and shes nearly one lol xx
Submitted by mumsuzy on Wed, 19/10/2011 - 20:39.
just want to know the age babies start teething. my baby is 15 weeks and he is showing signs of teething.