How to Help a Teething Baby or Toddler

Your little one's teeth may start appearing as early as 3 months, though the teething process can extend past your tot's 3rd birthday. This dramatic change doesn't come without a cost, as little ones may show irritability or cry during the process. Parents may also find this experience to be anxiety-inducing. While you may not be able to relieve all of your little one's teething symptoms, there are several things you can do to provide relief.

Instructions

    • 1

      Provide your baby with teething toys and rings, or with a chilled soft object, like a clean washcloth. Do not give any frozen objects to your baby or toddler, as these can hurt baby's gums, according to Boston Children's Hospital. Objects that could break and become a choking hazard should also be avoided.

    • 2

      Clean your fingers and gently massage baby's gums to bring relief. While you can use topical teething gels, they tend to wash away quickly and may do little to relieve your toddler's teething pain, according to AskDrSears.com.

    • 3

      Wipe baby's face with a soft, clean cloth throughout teething. Drool can irritate the skin around your baby's mouth if it is left untouched.

    • 4

      Talk to your baby's doctor about giving her acetaminophen or ibuprofen if other solutions do not seem to help. Don't administer these over-the-counter drugs without getting a doctor's opinion first, suggests KidsHealth.org.

    • 5

      Pay attention to your baby's behavior. Teething typically causes only mild disturbances. High fevers are not indicative of teething but rather are a sign of illness; you may want to make an appointment with your pediatrician.

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