You know those babies who seem to sprout teeth without even a whimper? Unfortunately, not every little one is so lucky! Teething can be a rough time – the sore gums, the disrupted sleep, the inconsolable fussiness. It’s enough to wear any parent down. If your baby is having a particularly tough time with teething, I want to share some natural remedies that have been lifesavers for me and the families I work with.
Understanding Your Baby’s Gums and Teeth
Before those adorable little teeth erupt, there’s a whole lot of activity happening under the surface. Your baby’s gums, which are the soft tissue covering their jawbone, start to swell and become tender as the new teeth begin to push through. This pressure and inflammation are what cause the discomfort associated with teething.
The order in which teeth erupt can vary from baby to baby, but typically, the front bottom teeth (central incisors) are the first to arrive, usually around 6 months old. These are followed by the upper central incisors, then the lateral incisors (both top and bottom), and so on, until all 20 baby teeth have made their appearance by around age 3.
Spotting the Symptom of Teething
Now that you understand what’s happening under the gums, let’s look for the telltale signs that your little one might be teething:
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- Gumming and gnawing: Does everything seem to find its way into your baby’s mouth these days? They’re probably trying to soothe their sore gums by chewing on anything they can get their hands on!
- Drool galore: All that gumming and chewing can kickstart their little drool factories. Keep a bib handy to protect their clothes, and gently wipe away any excess drool to prevent rashes.
- Tender gums: If you gently rub your finger on their gums, you might notice slight swelling or redness. That’s where those new teeth are trying to make their grand entrance!
- Fussiness and irritability: Teething pain can make your usually happy-go-lucky baby a bit grumpy. Don’t worry, this is perfectly normal – imagine how you’d feel if your teeth were moving around under your gums!
- Trouble sleeping and changes in eating habits: Teething discomfort can make it harder for your baby to relax and drift off to sleep. You might also notice they’re less interested in feeding, be it nursing or from a bottle.
Natural Teething Remedies
Treatments for babies sore gums
Teething Gels and remedies: Many natural teething gels blend soothing ingredients like herbal extracts and clove oil with a base of Aloe vera gel. These ingredients work together to provide relief from discomfort. Some teething gels also help support the natural teething process and promote a healthy oral environment by managing bacteria on your baby’s emerging teeth. Popular options include TeethEase and Bonjela.
And there a lots of other natural baby teething remedies based around the teething gel concept too.
Cold and Frozen Relief:
- Soothe with Chills: A simple and effective way to manage teething discomfort is with a chilled or frozen cloth. Soak a clean washcloth in chamomile tea (known for its calming properties) or water. Knotting or using a textured cloth can provide extra stimulation for your baby. Place the damp cloth in a clean container or resealable plastic bag and chill it in the refrigerator or freezer. Once cool (not frozen solid for safety reasons), let your baby chew on the cloth to relieve gum soreness.
- Frozen Food Options: Another teething soother option is frozen fruits or vegetables in large chunks. These provide a cold and safe surface for your baby to gnaw on, offering pain relief while satisfying their urge to chew.
Turmeric: Turmeric, a bright yellow spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties and health benefits, can be a helpful addition to your teething baby’s diet (if they are already eating solids). Its natural anti-inflammatory effects may help reduce gum inflammation and teething discomfort. Remember, a little goes a long way! Start with a small amount of turmeric (freshly grated or ground) and gradually increase it as your baby adjusts to the flavor.
Here’s a tip: Try incorporating turmeric into a baby-friendly dish like a lentil dahl.
Baby teething necklaces and chew toys
Amber teething necklaces (DO NOT RECOMMEND)
While some parents might consider amber teething necklaces for excessive drooling , it’s crucial to prioritize safety. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly warns against using amber teething necklaces due to serious choking and strangulation hazards. For a soothing and safe alternative, try silicone chewable jewelry designed specifically for teething babies. Always choose products that are labeled as safe, non-toxic, and don’t have any small parts that could break off.
Soft chewable toys
Teething babies need safe and satisfying objects to chomp on! Toys like Sophie the Giraffe are ideal – their soft, pliable material offers a soothing surface for sore gums. Some harder teething toys can be frustrating; when those sore gums are aching, babies instinctively clamp down, potentially hurting themselves on the very thing meant to help!
There are countless fantastic options out there. Years ago, I even brought back an adorable Sophie for my nephew from a trip to France. Here’s a picture of their adventures together:
Necklaces for mama to wear
Teething babies love to explore, and what’s handier than something mom is already wearing! Specially designed silicone necklaces and bracelets are a lifesaver. Not only are they safe for your baby to chew, but they add a stylish touch to your outfit. Plus, you won’t be scrambling around looking for a teether since it’s always on hand!
Here’s a popular silicone option:
Other Homeopathic Teething Remedies for Babies
Epsom Salts
Adding a small amount of food-grade or pharmaceutical-grade Epsom salts to your baby’s bath can be a soothing addition to their teething routine. The magnesium in the salts helps relax muscles and promote a sense of calm. Remember, a little goes a long way – a couple of teaspoons per 10 liters of bathwater is plenty.
Important Note: Always use Epsom salts specifically labeled for bathing and ensure they are food or pharmaceutical grade to guarantee safety for your baby.
Lavender oil
Lavender oil is known for its calming properties. Add a few drops to your baby’s bathwater for a touch of aromatherapy to help soothe teething discomfort and promote a sense of relaxation. For a post-bath treat, gently massage your baby with diluted lavender oil in a suitable carrier oil (like sweet almond or coconut oil).
Important Note: Always check with your pediatrician before using essential oils on babies. Ensure you select high-quality lavender oil and properly dilute it in a carrier oil for their delicate skin.
Cranial sacral osteopathy
Cranial sacral osteopathy (a gentle hands-on therapy) is one of my go-to remedies, especially for babies experiencing intense teething discomfort. This therapy can help release tension or stagnation in the jaw and skull, which can make teething much more manageable. While it’s not a quick fix, cranial sacral osteopathy can be a valuable part of easing your baby’s teething struggles, particularly if their symptoms are severe.
Homeopathics:
While some parents find success with readily available homeopathic teething remedies, remember that the right remedy depends on your baby’s specific symptoms. Popular options include Weleda powder (which contains lactose) and Naturopharm (which contains alcohol).
Important Notes:
- Talk to Your Doctor: Consult your pediatrician before using homeopathic remedies on your baby, especially those containing alcohol.
- Individual Approach: If these over-the-counter options don’t seem effective, consider consulting a qualified homeopath for a personalized remedy plan tailored to your baby’s unique needs.
Natural Calming Remedies:
Sometimes teething discomfort goes beyond fussiness and includes full-blown distress. I recently heard a story of a stressed-out mom whose screaming toddler was calmed within minutes by a naturopathy remedy called Kids Calm by Kiwi Herbs. While I’ve used these remedies with success, it’s important to remember that what works for one child might not work for another. Find out more about homeopathy around the home.
Important Notes:
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- Individualized Approach: If over-the-counter natural remedies don’t help, consider consulting a classical homeopath for personalized solutions tailored to your child’s specific symptoms.
- Anecdotal Evidence: While personal stories can be encouraging, always consult your pediatrician before starting any new remedies for your baby.
Let’s Talk Safety!
As your baby explores new ways to soothe their teething pain, safety is always your top priority:
- Supervise, supervise, supervise: Whether it’s a teething toy, a mesh feeder, or even a washcloth, never leave your baby unattended while they’re chewing or sucking on something. Choking is a serious hazard, so it’s best to keep a watchful eye.
- Choose toys and teethers wisely: Look for products that are age-appropriate, made from non-toxic materials, and don’t have any small parts that could break off and become a choking hazard. Regularly inspect toys for wear and tear, and toss out any that are damaged or potentially unsafe.
- Be mindful of amber necklaces: While those Baltic amber teething necklaces have become incredibly popular, there’s a debate around their safety. Some experts caution that the beads pose a strangulation risk or a choking hazard if the necklace breaks. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and opt for safer alternatives.
- Consult your pediatrician: It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor for personalized advice. They can recommend remedies that are safe for your baby and rule out any other underlying causes for excessive fussiness.
When Things Get Tough
Teething can be quite the rollercoaster, and while most babies will breeze through it with minimal discomfort, others might have a tougher time. It can be heart-wrenching to see your little one in pain, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for guidance if your baby is excessively uncomfortable.
Remember, It’s Temporary!
Hang in there, parents! This too shall pass. Most babies complete the teething process by the time they turn three years old. Keep offering your baby a variety of safe and soothing options to ease their discomfort. With a little patience and lots of cuddles, you’ll navigate this milestone together and be rewarded with a beautiful set of pearly whites.
For more great baby advice from Kiwi experts, check out our Baby section.
Do you have any tried-and-true teething remedies that have worked wonders for your little one?
Share them in the comments below! Let’s support each other through this sometimes-bumpy phase of parenthood.
