Question from our Readers: Teething Remedies

Reader Question: My child is teething, and nothing soothes their gums. What safe remedies do you recommend?

It sounds like you’re navigating the challenging yet rewarding journey of motherhood, and your child’s teething is causing both of you some discomfort. I understand feeling overwhelmed by the volume of information out there on how to soothe teething babies safely and effectively. 

I’m here to help. Let’s break down some of the tried-and-tested natural teething remedies and explore their pros and cons, so you can make informed decisions.

What Does Teething Look Like? 

Before we talk about teething remedies, let’s look at what teething looks like:

• Teething Timeline: While teething often begins around 6 months, it can start as early as 3 months for some babies.
• Signs and Symptoms: Common signs include increased drooling, fussiness, biting or chewing on objects, difficulty sleeping, diarrhea, fever, and swollen or tender gums where teeth are emerging.

Natural Teething Remedies

Here’s a summary of popular natural remedies and things to consider:

Cold Compresses

This is a classic. Offer a chilled (not frozen) washcloth, teething ring, or frozen fruit or veggies (like bananas or berries) in a mesh feeder (for babies already eating solids). 

The coolness brings temporary relief to inflamed gums. Pros are that it’s easy and safe, and most babies enjoy it. However, the effects are short-lived.

Gum Massage

Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger for a few minutes. Direct pressure can alleviate pain.

Gum massages are simple, always accessible, and can be soothing due to your touch. Some babies dislike having their mouths touched when sore, though. 

Teething Toys

Offer a variety of textured teething toys made of food-grade silicone, natural rubber, or untreated wood. These toys are safe for your baby to chew⁠—they can massage the gums and be distracting. However, they might not provide enough relief for severe discomfort.

Chamomile Tea

A cooled chamomile tea bag or a washcloth dipped in the tea can give your baby something calming to chew on. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties which may help reduce irritability.

Some babies may dislike the taste though, and there’s a slight risk of allergic reaction. You should also check with your child’s pediatrician before using any herbal remedies, including chamomile tea, especially if your child has underlying health conditions or is taking other medication. 

Clove Oil

Diluted clove oil (with a carrier oil like coconut oil) can be gently rubbed into the gums. It acts as a mild anesthetic and provides topical pain relief. Remember that clove oil requires precise dilution to be safe; improper use can be harmful.

When Should You Consider Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications?

If natural remedies don’t provide sufficient relief and your baby is very uncomfortable, you can consult your pediatrician about using infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months) according to recommended guidelines. Always consult your doctor before considering any over-the-counter medications. 

Important Reminders

Don’t hesitate to seek advice from your pediatrician or a pediatric dentist for personalized guidance.

• Hygiene: Keep all teething toys and clothes clean to prevent bacteria buildup.
• Supervision: Always supervise your baby while using teething remedies.
• Patience: Teething is a process, and some remedies take time or trial and error to find what works.

Trust your instincts⁠—you know your baby best. We wish you both comfort and brighter smiles soon. Let me know if you’d like to explore any of these remedies further. I’m here to support you!