I don’t think I need to tell you that having a teething baby can be quite a challenging experience – not just for baby, but also for mom and dad. After having 5 kids of my own, I can honestly say that teething is something that never gets better with each child. … you just learn how to cope with it in different ways.
When baby starts teething, he/she usually loses sleep, and mom and dad are super tired – sometimes, mom is even sore especially if she’s breastfeeding (because chances are, the little one has chomped down one too many times!) I love breastfeeding, but I certainly change my tune for that brief second of pain.. because boy, does it HURT!
Many mammas aren’t comfortable with using Orajel on their infant, even if it is the Baby Orajel variety… because it contains Benzocaine – which is an ingredient that can, in many cases, cause an adverse reaction. Little bodies struggle with an influx of synthetic chemicals, which can be hard for their bodies to detox – therefore we lean towards natural options that we can use to help our little one alleviate the pain.
Here are some of my favorite teething remedies that are not only safe, but effective:
Cold wash cloth: Soak a wash cloth in water and then wring it out, and toss in the freezer or fridge to get it as cold as possible. That cold temperature can help soothe those inflamed gums. To prepare a cold wash cloth:
- Soak 3/4 of the wash cloth in water, trying not to get the other part wet (baby will need something to grab onto).
- Wring out, and fold into fourths, place in a ziploc bag in your freezer.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours; then remove from the bag and give to baby to chew on.
- Ensure that you launder that washcloth between uses… they can harbor bacteria if you don’t keep them clean.
Teething Necklace: An Amber teething necklace can be a great way to provide temporary relief . The skin absorbs the natural succinic acid that is released when the Amber teether is warmed by the sin. You can wrap it around your child’s neck during the day or around the ankle at night.
The necklace stimulates your baby’s immune system and reduces drooling, teething pain, and inflammation – it is not to be placed in the mouth, rather just worn.
Baby Teether Toy (BPA FREE): There are great toys available that are BPA-FREE and safe for your child to gnaw and chew on from the age of 3 months on. This teether here is a wonderful (safe) alternative that’s the perfect shape, texture, and design.
Essential Oils: There are several essential oils that work wonderfully to help support healthy teething for infants. You can dilute the oil heavily and apply on their jawline or, opt to dilute heavily and then swipe on their gums. One of my favorite oils to use for teething babies is Copaiba, but you can also use Roman Chamomile or Frankincense.
Don’t use low quality essential oils that you find at the supermarket or health food store. You can see what we recommend by heading here.
Gum massage: A gum massage can be a really helpful way to soothe sore gums. Using clean hands, rub your finger on your baby’s gums to reduce the inflammation.
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