Teething: Soothe Sore Gums

 www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

Although teething times vary based on the child, somewhere between three and twelve months your child’s teeth will make their grand, grumpy appearance. Classic signs and symptoms to look out for include:

• Drooling
• Chewing on solid objects
• Irritability or crankiness
• Sore or tender gums

Regardless of the symptoms your child exhibits, you’ll be desperate to give them some teething relief. Consider these tips for soothing sore gums:

1. Rubbing - With a clean finger, or damp, clean washcloth, massage your baby’s gums. The pressure can ease your child’s discomfort.
2. Teething Ring - Opt for one made of firm rubber. The liquid-filled kind may break under the pressure of your baby’s chewing.
3. Keep it cool - A cold washcloth or chilled teething ring can also do the trick, just don’t give your baby a frozen teething ring, the contact with extreme cold may be harmful.
4. Dry the drool - Excessive drooling is part of the teething process. In order to prevent skin irritation, keep a clean cloth nearby to dry your baby’s chin!

For additional teething tips click here » If you have more questions or concerns with your child's oral habits - schedule an appointment at any of our 3 locations. We'll evaluate the situation and discuss solutions to ensure your child is paving the way towards excellent oral health!

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Easy Alternatives for Teething Rings

Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental and Orthodontics

www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

Some teething kids want to chomp on anything EXCEPT the teething rings you bring home from the store. So now what? Luckily there are quite a few alternatives, many of which you may already have in your home:

• Frozen Mini Bagel - The spongy circle will help absorb excess drool and is much tastier than a plastic ring. Make sure to keep your child to be sure a piece of the bagel doesn't break off causing a choking hazard.
• Frozen Waffle - Similar to a frozen mini bagel -the frozen waffle is a soothing treat for older kids cutting new pearly whites. Bonus, it thaws and turns to mush in your child's mouth to minimize the risk of choking hazards.
• Wooden Spoon - If you notice your child gnawing on their crib or side tables, perhaps a wooden spoon will do the trick. Make sure this kitchen utensil is natural, smooth, with rounded edges.
• Wet Washcloth - If your child is already sucking on fabric, try offering a cold / wet washcloth. Just stick a wet washcloth in the fridge for a bit before giving to your child.
• Gum Massage - If no teeth have come in yet, try washing your hands and giving your child a little gum massage. Simply rub the gums with a clean finger to offer some relief.

There are many alternatives to plastic teething rings - the important thing is to find something that works for you and your child. Always be aware of the objects your child is putting into their mouths to avoid potential choking hazards.

Have other alternative teething ring suggestions? Share with us on our Facebook page!