6 Tips to help a teething child

Between 13 and 19 months, toddlers typically begin to develop their first set of molars. While some go through the teething process with little discomfort, others may experience symptoms such as pain, irritability, sleeplessness, swollen gums, excessive drooling, rashes, and a strong urge to chew or rub their gums. Around the age of two, when the second set of molars starts to emerge, these symptoms can become even more pronounced for some children.

Click here for a baby teeth eruption chart

For parents, witnessing our children struggle with teething pain can be challenging. Not only is it heartbreaking to see them in discomfort, but the sleepless nights, constant fussiness, and clinginess can also take a toll on our own well-being. Fortunately, there are several ways to soothe toddler teething pain, making the experience more manageable for both our little ones and ourselves.

1. Cold Drinks & Food

Cold, soft foods and drinks can help soothe your child’s teething discomfort. However, it’s essential to choose nutritious, low-sugar options to support their oral health. Some healthy, soothing snacks include:

Chilled applesauce or mashed bananas
Frozen yogurt tubes
Ice water in a sippy cup
Chilled fruit in a mesh feeder
Homemade popsicles

Safety Note: Ice cubes pose a choking risk. Always serve ice water in a cup with a lid. If your child prefers drinking without a lid, offer cold water without ice cubes.

2. Chewing & Teething Toys

There are many teething toys available for toddlers, designed to provide counterpressure on the gums as new teeth emerge. Some of the most effective options are made of silicone, which is soft enough to protect teeth and gums yet firm enough to offer relief. For added soothing, try chilling silicone chew beads or teething toys in the fridge before giving them to your child.

If you don’t have a teething toy on hand, a washcloth soaked in cold water can also provide quick relief.

Safety Tip: Avoid liquid- or gel-filled teething toys, as they can break easily when chewed on by toddlers with multiple teeth. Additionally, freezing these toys can make them too hard, potentially causing harm to teeth and gums.

3. children's ibuprofen or acetaminophen

For toddlers experiencing severe teething pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like children’s ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide relief. However, it’s important to use these medications as directed on the packaging and consider other soothing methods first before turning to medication.

4. Massage their gums

If your child is willing, gently massaging their gums can be an effective way to ease teething discomfort. Before starting, thoroughly wash your hands and clean under your fingernails. Run cool water over your fingers, then gently massage your child’s gums in a circular motion. Gum massages are especially beneficial before meals and at bedtime to help soothe discomfort.

5. Breastfeeding or nursing

If your toddler is still breastfeeding, nursing or offering breast milk in a cup can provide both comfort and pain relief. However, teething may cause your child to chew or gnaw during nursing, making feedings more challenging. In this case, try offering chilled breast milk in a sippy cup or making breast milk popsicles using pumped milk and a popsicle mold for a soothing alternative.

6. Stick to their routine

When your toddler is in pain, their stress levels are likely high. To help them feel more secure, try to maintain their usual routine. Stick to the same bedtime, nap schedule, and pre-sleep rituals they’re accustomed to. While a fussy, irritable toddler may make it challenging to follow their routine exactly, keeping things as consistent as possible can provide comfort and make it easier to soothe their symptoms using the methods mentioned above.

Providing plenty of love, cuddles, and emotional support is one of the best ways to help ease your toddler’s teething pain. Staying calm and patient can make a big difference, offering the reassurance they need to relax and cope with their discomfort. Sometimes, a little extra love and understanding are the best remedies.

When to call your child’s pediatric dentist

Sometimes, toddlers may develop an eruption cyst where a tooth is emerging through the gum. While these cysts can look concerning, they typically resolve on their own as the tooth pushes through. In most cases, no treatment is needed. However, if the cyst does not rupture naturally or shows signs of infection, a pediatric dentist can easily remove the top of the cyst.

As a general rule, if you notice anything unusual in your child’s mouth, it’s always best to consult your pediatric dentist. We’re happy to answer any questions or evaluate your child if you have concerns.

A little extra love and understanding are the best remedies.

If you have any other questions and/or would like to schedule an appointment for your child, click here or call us: 702-586-4347

Call us and schedule your child’s appointment today: (702)586-4347