Baby Teething : 7 Natural Remedies for Babies
So your baby is cranky and chewing everything constantly? Are you getting wet patches on your shoulders and spending your nights walking on the floors? Are you wondering if something is wrong with your baby?
Of course you are. It is because their new tooth pushes through the gums. It is a tough time for both babies and parents.
And I am sure there is not a mama in the history who has never questioned why their baby is getting so much pain?
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Even mine was fussy and cranky when she was at baby teething and I call her dustbin as she put every single thing in the mouth! Hahahaaa…
It is completely Normal. Yes, it is.
Let’s talk about natural, homemade remedies you can whip up with things you probably already have in your kitchen. No fancy ingredients just simple, soothing solutions to help your baby and you!!!
Wait, Is It Really Baby Teething?
Before we dive into the natural or home remedies, let’s make sure we are really dealing with baby teething and not something else because every baby is different.
1. Chewing: Baby is gonna try to chew every single thing like toys, fabric, footwear, their fingers, remote, your nose. Means anything they can get their gums on.
2. Fussiness and Crying: Baby can not sleep at all or would not eat/drink.
3. Swollen Gums: Redness or sore gum means a sore mood and it is normal.
4. Flushed Cheeks: Little cheeks might be rosier than usual.
5. Drooling: Constant drooling is a top sign of baby teething.
6. Fever: Slight temperature can be linked to baby teething, diarrhea and vomiting’s.
Natural and Homemade Teething Remedies for Babies
Fortunately, we have plenty of gentle and drug free ways to soothe baby gums pain at home at no cost. We will use these simple household or natural ingredients to make them feel relax. Always supervise your baby during these or any treatment and follow safety tips.
1. Magic Chilled Washcloth
Cold is a natural anesthetic. It numbs sore gums so what you need to do is to take a clean muslin or washcloth and soak one end in water, wring it out, then fold it. Pop it in a clean zip lock bag and freeze it for 30-60 minutes. The nubby texture is perfect for gnawing.
2. Cool Fruit or Veggies.
If your baby is above than 6months and started eating solids, try a chilled banana or a firm slice of apple, carrot or cucumber in a mesh feeder to avoid choking. The softness and coolness help numb the gums. Always cut the food according to your baby’s age and always watch closely for safety. Cold pacifiers can also help soothe baby teething.
3. Baby Teething Toys (Teether)
Market is full of soft silicone or rubber teethers. Store in the fridge, let it cool and give it to your baby for chewing and wait for the instant relief. Wooden teethers can also help their gums to soothe. Do not freeze these items solid because extreme cold can hurt tender gums.
4. Mesh feeder or Silicon Nibbler
Place a small piece of fruit like banana, mango or peach into a mesh feeder or a nibbler. Baby can have fruit juice without swallowing big pieces.
5. Breast Milk or Formula Popsicles
This is my favorite part though my daughter loves it the most. Pour some formula or breast milk into a baby friendly popsicle mold. Let it freeze and offer it to your baby. You can also use small cube in a mesh feeder and serve them to lick. It is incredibly delicious and soothing for baby teething.
6. Power of Massage or Pressure
The simple and common tool of sore gums is to give a massage. You just need to wash your hands thoroughly, use your finger, damp gauze pad, silicon brush or muslin cloth and gently message them.
7. Distraction and Comfort
Trust me, baby teething is often worse when baby is tired or bored. So, at that moment you need to stay calm and try to give your baby a new toy, rock them or playing games can let them forget the pain. Offer breastmilk, as it comforts the baby. Keep them close and serve skin-to-skin time.
What Not to Use While Baby Teething?
It is good to try on natural and home remedies while baby teething but there are a few things you need to avoid for safety.
- No sugar and alcohol – Your baby is your life so do not dip pacifiers in alcohol-based liquids or any sugary things and never give your baby alcohol at any cost. These are completely unsafe and harm your baby’s health. Natural does not always mean safe if it not used correctly.
- Choking hazards – Check your baby’s safety first. The teether or food item you give to the baby should be large enough, risk will be less for choking. Avoid tie pacifiers or toys on strings around baby’s neck. Use short clips if needed. While using mesh feeders, nibblers or food items, always keep an eye on your baby.
- No frozen or too hard Items – Never give anything completely frozen like an ice cube or frozen fruit directly in a baby’s mouth. These can cause gum frostbite or break into choking pieces. If you freeze cloths or rings, let them thaw slightly first.
- No teething gels or tablets with medication. The FDA advises against homeopathic teething tablets or gels containing benzocaine or belladonna chop.edumayoclinic.org. These can be dangerous. They have been linked to serious illness in infants. Always check labels. If your baby seems in severe pain, visit to your doctor about age-appropriate doses.
By sticking to safe, soft, and chilled objects and careful supervision, you can avoid most hazards. If you have a doubt or unsure about a natural or home remedy, ask your pediatrician or dentist. Remember, even gentle strategies can be risky if not done in a proper way.
Teething is a challenging phase for both baby and parents, but it doesn’t last forever. With patience, cuddles, and the natural or home remedies above, you can help your baby. Every parent has to go through this and if you stay calm, you can ease your baby’s discomfort. Always remember, you know what is best for your baby. Use the tips and share which one help you the most and keep in touch with your pediatrician if you need extra guidance….
