4 Tips To Relieve Teething Blues

My baby is having a hard time these days. All of 7 months and he is going through severe teething blues. Clenching his gums, desperately wanting to put anything and everything in his mouth and now it’s drooling. Let’s not even talk about how irritated he gets, particularly in the evenings. I give a gentle massage to soothe him down. I know for a fact that my little man’s tough times shall soon get over. Really dying to click his toothy smiley pictures.

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Teething stages in babies:

Babies can get their first set of teeth anytime between 6 months to a year. I know the window-period is long but it is also normal for teething to start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months! Besides, I have been told that the lower front set of teeth usually appear first as compared to upper front teeth which can be delayed by 1-2 months. Now, can’t say for sure if it’s a myth since my son (brat H aka Harshal) has been showing teething signs on the upper front!

Teething blues 02Although many babies are affected by teething, some may become even fussier while eating. This is because the gums swell (more like, they stretch themselves) to make way for those lovely shiny pearls to erupt. The swelling and soreness are like the climax! It usually happens about 3 to 5 days before the tooth shows and normally fades away as the tooth breaks the skin. If your baby is anywhere between 3 to 6 months and hasn’t cut his/her first tooth, but is often seen pressing his gums with the fingers, rubbing ears, having sleepless nights (which is due to the heavy head caused by tight gums), refuses to eat or drink, red cheeks or face, and excessive drooling, then consider the cute little face is getting ready to show you the much-awaited, gorgeous toothy smile :). You must consult the pediatrician if the symptoms are extreme.

4 Tips to help your baby during the teething blues:

Here are 4 super tips that have helped my baby feel better during his teething phase. Thankfully, we shall soon be saying goodbye to our teething blues!

#Tip1 – Massage baby’s gums

Use a clean finger/cold baby washcloth/cold round edge of spoon/cold teething ring (such as solid or liquid-filled teether) to massage baby’s gums. Keep in mind that the objects should be cold and not frozen as it will stick! The counter-pressure will soothe the pain and the baby will get temporary relief. Massage for a minute or two and repeat this 2 – 3 times per day. Teething blues 04

#Tip 2 – Objects to gnaw

Give your baby safe objects to gnaw on such as teething rings, silicone teether, soft teething toy, rubber teether, or cold washcloth (dipped in water or breast milk). Always pick high-quality toys specially designed for babies that are made from 100% natural rubber and are chemical-free. 

#Tip 3 – Chilled fruits

If your baby has started taking solids you can also feed your baby chilled fruits, like banana or apple slices. Place one slide inside a mesh feeder and the baby can chew it. It will not only provide relief but will also fill up his tummy. In fact, you can also try carrot sticks for him/her to chew on. My son loves it!

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#Tip 4 – Homoeopathic Medicines

Homeopathic remedies also work well to a great extent. There are homeopathic teething drops and tablets available to serve this purpose. Although this method is not as popular as OTC medications, you can check with your baby’s doctor if this method will work for your baby. I started at 6 months and it is definitely late because homeopathy takes a while for the effects to show, I am happy with the results.

Above all, don’t panic or feel irritable. Do understand the pain your baby must be going through. He needs to feel loved. So, go to any length to provide him/her with all the comfort you can. A gentle massage at night, warm hugs, and gorgeous cuddles, such beautiful mother’s remedies can beat the hell out of silly teething blues!

Originally posted at Indian Moms Connect

Image source: 01, 02, 03, 04

Author: Vaishali Sudan Sharma

Mom blogger, books lover, fan of new wave cinema, fond of jazz, lounge and classical music. Love to cook Indian & Italian cuisine.

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