Is your little one having a hard time sleeping? If they are around six months old, then it may be due to the discomfort of their first teeth breaking through their gumline. The discomfort can lead to restless nights for you and your baby, causing you to search high and low for an effective remedy. While each child is different, here are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
DO: Offer Your Little One Cold Items
Cold items (like a clean, wet washcloth that has been in the refrigerator) can both soothe irritated gums and reduce inflammation. You can also offer your little one cool foods and drinks, like slushy applesauce, frozen fruit, and iced water. This will help keep their discomfort at bay throughout the day.
DON’T: Rub Whiskey or Alcohol on Their Gums
Some old wives’ tales suggest that rubbing whiskey or another alcoholic beverage on their gums is the best solution. The Food and Drug Administration strongly advises against this, as well as topical numbing creams and homeopathic teething tablets. Methods like these can end up doing more harm than good.
DO: Apply Light Pressure to Their Gums
Teething babies often find comfort in having their gums rubbed. The counter sensation helps alleviate some of the discomfort, which can make the transition to sleep much more seamlessly. Just make sure to clean your fingers thoroughly beforehand and only use light pressure.
DON’T: Use Teething Necklaces
Teething necklaces were once a go-to solution. However, the risk of strangulation and choking is too high, which is why they are no longer recommended. Instead, opt for an expert-approved method, like a cold, clean washcloth, before lying your little one down for some rest.
DO: Ask Their Pediatric Dentist About Infant Ibuprofen
If nothing seems to be working, then it’s worth talking to your child’s pediatric dentist about a pain reliever, like infant ibuprofen. When administered correctly, it can help alleviate your child’s discomfort. As with any medication, however, it’s important to talk to your child’s doctor first.
DON’T: Disrupt Your Baby’s Bedtime Routine
With an already abnormal sleeping schedule, you may consider forgoing your little one’s nighttime routine until they are done teething. Although this may seem convenient, there is a good chance your child finds some comfort in their routine. So, do your best not to deviate too much from it.
The teething phase can result in a lot of sleepless nights for you and your little one. The good news is that the above dos and don’ts help can alleviate their discomfort and restore your peaceful nights.
About the Practice
Our team at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to help growing smiles thrive, from their first visit as an infant to their last checkup before they head off to college. Every step of the way, we will work hard to make sure each appointment is positive, each treatment plan is personalized to their dental needs, and each question you have is answered. If you want to learn more about how to soothe a teething baby, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at (603) 880-5002.