So your precious little baby is 6 months old now. He/She has survived these 6 months with utmost care and affection from you.
It is exactly this reason that leaves parents hapless when their child is in pain. Your child will begin experiencing his/her first bout of pain at around this 6 months time; because this is time when they get their first tooth.
The best way to prepare for this situation is to be well informed. Keep in mind these tips to soothe teething babies, and breeze through this otherwise painful (for you and the baby) phase.
COLD IS THE KEYWORD
This is one of the oldest on the tips to soothe teething babies’ list. You could let your baby chew on something cold. A cold, wet washcloth is an ideal chew toy, since babies love the rough texture, as it eases their irritation; and the cold water helps ease the swelling in their gums.
You could also hand a teething ring to your child. Popsicles made out of fruit juices or low-sugar liquids make for a great option as well.
Alternatively, chilled vegetables that are not prone to falling apart (viz. carrots and parsnips) can be used.
One parent was seen describing how he’d given his baby a marrow filled bone from cooked steak. He would cook the steak, and then chill the bone overnight. He was of the opinion that beef was better for his kid in comparison to the unnatural plastic teething rings. If beef works for you and your baby, go ahead and try it we say!
NUMBING GAMES
A lot of parents swear by numbing gels and other such similar products that are available in the market today. As for the babies who do not like the feeling of ‘numbness’ in their mouth, you could try diluting some clove oil with a carrier oil, and massage this mixture into their gums. It will help ease the pain.
DE-STRESS THE BABY
You could try talking to your baby. It might help soothe him/her down. Generally speaking, the irritation that is caused by teething gums is worse than the pain they experience as a result.
You could also try playing soft music in the room when the baby is around; or perhaps, a massage might help. The idea is to calm the baby down, and distract him/her from the gnawing irritability. Weak chamomile tea is said to cool down infants’ mouths. Do yourself a favor, and brew a cup for yourself as well. You need some relaxing yourself.
FIGHTING THE ENEMY – PAIN
Each and every parent faces a dilemma when the pain brought upon by new teeth sets in.
‘Do I let the baby wail?’
‘Is it okay to give her the medicine now?’
The best person to consult on this is your doctor. Ask him/her about the correct dosages that can be taken to provide relief to your flustered baby.
We hope that these ‘tips to soothe teething babies’ helps you get through this phase of life. When things get tough, remember the four words ‘This too shall pass’. Relax; it will be over before you know it.
