As a parent, there’s nothing more heart-wrenching than seeing your little one in pain. And when it comes to teething, the discomfort can be especially unbearable for both baby and parents. Sleepless nights, crying fits, and endless drooling can leave you feeling helpless. But fear not! There are plenty of remedies that can help soothe your teething baby at night and provide some much-needed relief for all involved. In this blog post, we’ll share the top 10 remedies for how to soothe a teething baby at night ? so you can all get back to restful slumber.
What is Teething?
Teething is a natural process that every baby goes through, usually starting around six months of age. It involves the emergence of new teeth from the gums and can be quite uncomfortable for the little ones.
During teething, babies may experience symptoms such as drooling, irritability, loss of appetite and disrupted sleep patterns. The discomfort is caused by pressure on the gums as teeth start to push through.
While there is no set timeline for teething, most babies will have all 20 primary teeth by their third birthday. However, it’s important to remember that every child is different and some may experience earlier or later teething than others.
It’s also worth noting that although rare, some babies are born with one or more teeth already present in their mouth – known as natal teeth. In this case, it’s important to seek advice from a dental professional on how best to care for them.
Teething can be a challenging time for both parents and their little ones but understanding what it entails can help alleviate some worries.
The Top 10 Remedies: How to soothe a teething baby at night?
When it comes to soothing a teething baby at night, there are plenty of remedies that parents can try. Here are the top 10 remedies for easing your little one’s discomfort:
-
Cold Teething Toys
Cold can provide numbing relief to your baby’s sore gums. Offer them teething toys that have been chilled in the refrigerator, not frozen. The cold temperature will help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Silicone or rubber teething toys are excellent options as they are safe for babies to chew on and easy to clean.
-
Chilled Washcloth
Another simple yet effective remedy is using a chilled washcloth. Wet a clean washcloth, place it in the refrigerator for a short while, and then give it to your baby to chew on. The texture and coolness of the cloth will provide comfort and alleviate teething pain.
-
Teething Rings
Teething rings are designed to provide gentle pressure on the gums, offering relief to teething babies. Opt for BPA-free, non-toxic teething rings that are safe for your little one to chew on. Consider placing the teething ring in the refrigerator for a few minutes to enhance the soothing effect.
-
Teething Gels
Teething gels containing a mild numbing agent can provide temporary relief to your baby’s sore gums. Ensure you choose a gel that is specifically formulated for infants and follow the recommended dosage. Consult your pediatrician before using any teething gels to ensure it is safe for your baby.
-
Natural Remedies
Many parents prefer natural remedies to soothe their teething babies. Chamomile tea, when cooled and applied to a clean cloth, can be used to gently massage the gums. Alternatively, clove oil diluted with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, can provide pain relief. Always use natural remedies with caution and after consulting with a healthcare professional.
-
Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding
Nursing or offering a bottle can provide comfort and distraction for your teething baby. The sucking motion helps soothe their gums and promotes relaxation. If your baby is exclusively breastfed, they may seek more frequent feeds during teething periods.
-
Gum Massage
Gently massaging your baby’s gums with clean fingers can provide relief from teething pain. Wash your hands thoroughly and use a clean, soft cloth to apply light pressure in circular motions. Be careful not to apply excessive force or use anything sharp that could harm your baby’s delicate gums.
-
Distraction and Play
Diverting your baby’s attention can help them forget about teething discomfort, especially during bedtime. Engage in soothing activities, such as reading a book or playing soft music, to create a calm environment that promotes sleep. Avoid overstimulation, as it can hinder their ability to settle down.
-
Comfortable Bedtime Routine
Establishing a consistent and comforting bedtime routine can signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down and sleep. Include activities like a warm bath, gentle massage, and quiet time before putting them to bed. The familiar routine will help create a sense of security and relaxation.
-
Pain Medication
In severe cases where other remedies do not provide adequate relief, you may consider over-the-counter pain medication
Prevention Tips
Preventing teething discomfort is always better than dealing with it. Here are some tips that can help you prevent your baby from suffering.
Firstly, wash your hands before touching the gums of a teething baby to avoid transferring germs. Secondly, use a clean and damp cloth to rub their gums gently. This will alleviate the itchiness and pain caused by emerging teeth.
Another way to prevent teething discomfort is to give the baby something cold to chew on like a chilled spoon or cucumber slice. This reduces inflammation, numbs soreness and provides relief.
Additionally, try feeding them cool liquids such as water or breast milk using a sippy cup or straw cup instead of bottle-feeding since sucking on bottles may irritate their gums more.
Moreover, keep your baby’s mouth dry because excess drooling can make rashes worse which leads to additional pain. Provide enough distractions; playing with toys not only helps in reducing discomfort but also strengthens muscles involved in chewing.
By following these prevention tips regularly, you can lessen the severity of teething symptoms while keeping your little one comfortable during this difficult time.
When to Call the Doctor
While teething can be a challenging phase for both babies and parents, it is usually nothing to worry about. However, there are some cases where you may need to call your doctor.
If your baby has a fever above 101°F (38.3°C), this could indicate an infection or illness unrelated to teething. Remember that fevers are not caused by teething, so don’t dismiss it as such.
Another reason to call your doctor is if your baby experiences severe diarrhea or vomiting alongside their teething symptoms. This could lead them towards dehydration and require medical attention.
Teething should not cause difficulty breathing or swallowing either; if these symptoms appear together with other signs of distress like moderate-to-severe fever, seek immediate medical attention.
Remember that every child is different. If you feel concerned about something related to your baby’s health during their teething period, don’t hesitate to contact your pediatrician – they’ll know what’s best for your little one!
Conclusion
Teething can be a difficult time for both babies and parents. However, with the right remedies and prevention tips, you can soothe your baby’s discomfort during their teething phase.
Remember to always prioritize your baby’s comfort by trying out different remedies until you find what works best for them. Keep in mind that not all babies are the same, so what worked for one may not work for another.
It is also important to ensure that your baby is safe while using any of these remedies. Always closely supervise them during use and consult with a doctor if you have any concerns or questions.
By following these top 10 remedies and prevention tips, you can help make this challenging time easier on both yourself and your little one.
