How to soothe baby during teething

Teething is one of life’s first stressful experiences for babies and parents. As new teeth push through gums, it can make things uncomfortable for the little ones, leading to more crying and irritability. Fortunately, understanding when teething begins and recognising the signs can help. Parents on the ball can relieve pain and make this phase more manageable by following these tips on how to soothe baby during teething.

Furthermore, Milton’s sterilising products can help. Ensuring your baby puts clean objects in their mouth can reduce inflammation and infection risk during this trying time, which we explain below.

When does teething begin?

Babies normally start teething between 6 and 12 months as part of the normal, healthy development process. Dentists describe teeth as “erupting” due to how they punch through the soft gum tissue. You should start seeing fully formed teeth around your child’s first birthday.

Usually, the lower teeth will emerge first, followed by the upper. Molars at the back of the mouth come through last.

Common teething symptoms to be aware of

Teething can make babies feel uncomfortable, so they will usually show some signs of discomfort or irritation.

Teething symptoms include:

• Visibly red or sore gums when you peer into their mouths
• A low-level fever (usually no higher than 37.8°C)
• Pain that makes it harder for them to sleep
• Rosiness in the cheek area (usually due to gum irritation)
• A need to chew or gnaw on things around the house
• Extra drooling compared to normal
• Being fussier or more irritable than normal
• Rubbing their ears due to pain radiating from the teeth and gums

As a parent, it is important to understand that most of these symptoms are entirely normal. Teething is a stage babies have had to go through for thousands of years, however, it is natural to worry as a parent.

You may want to see a paediatrician if you see these symptoms develop alongside other signs, like vomiting or diarrhoea. These more serious issues are not common symptoms of teething.

how to handle baby’s teething pain

It can be challenging to watch your baby suffer and your natural response will be to ask; “how can I help?”. Fortunately, there are plenty of non-medical ways to soothe baby during teething.

1. Chewing Toys

The first option is to provide your baby with something to chew on while in their nursery. Nowadays, silicone-based products are available that are safe and non-toxic to infants. Teething rings are also an option; you can chill these in the refrigerator to provide your child with extra relief. Just make sure you sterilise items first with Milton’s cold water steriliser. It kills 99.9% of germs in 15 minutes, making sure all chew toys are safe.

2. Gum Massages

Giving your child a gum massage is another option. These help to relieve some of the pressure and inflammation that can build up in the gums while soothing your child at the same time. When massaging your baby’s gums, place a finger in their mouth and apply pressure in a circular motion. Remove your finger if your baby starts to experience discomfort.

3. Distractions

You could also try distractions. Sometimes, you can take your baby’s mind off the pain by giving them something else to think about, like a toy or game. Even reading to them at bedtime can help them fall asleep, reducing nighttime fussiness.

4. Cold Drinks

Cold drinks are another option for babies over 6 months. Chilled beverages can help reduce inflammatory pain (similar to ice packs). You can also use cold or frozen food if your baby eats solids. Mashed banana, applesauce or cooled yoghurt can all work.

5. Drool Reduction

While it won’t soothe teeth directly, reducing drool can reduce irritation to exposed skin around the mouth, preventing rashes. Use bibs to keep the chest and mouth area clean and apply moisturising ointment to affected areas if necessary.

The importance of sterilisation during teething

During teething, babies want to put everything in their mouths. As such, keeping objects in the home clean to prevent infection is critical. Germs in the environment can make those under 12 months of age ill.

Milton’s sterilisation products are designed for infants and parents. They meet various World Health Organisation and European Food Safety Authority standards, proving their effectiveness and usefulness for modern parenting.

These accolades come from Milton’s long history as a trusted name in baby care. The brand first emerged in 1916 to fight hospital infections and has since become a staple for parents wanting to eliminate bacteria from toys, pacifiers, and food prep utensils.

Shop our wide range of sterilising and hygiene products to protect your baby from germs at Boots, Amazon, Tesco, ASDA, Sainsbury’s, and other major supermarkets.