As a parent, there are few things in life more distressing than seeing your child in an uncomfortable or unpleasant situation—so if your little one is teething, you might be feeling some tugging on your heartstrings! Rest assured, this is a natural process, and they won’t endure their discomfort forever; but how can you help them with their burden? One option worth considering is a teething ring. Continue reading below to learn more from your trusted pediatric dentist about the teething process and how the right type of toy can provide an immense amount of relief for your child!
When Do Babies Start Teething?
Teething generally occurs between 4 to 7 months of age for most children, but it can begin earlier or continue later—after all, every smile is different! This process usually continues for about 2 years. It’s notoriously uncomfortable for the majority of children, and some common symptoms that often manifest include swollen or tender gums, drooling, irritability, and the urge to bite hard objects.
What Are Teething Rings?
Teething rings are toys designed specifically to assist children dealing with sore gums caused by teething. They’re generally shaped as rings that are easy for smaller hands to firmly grasp, and they come in a variety of materials including rubber, soft plastic, silicone, and wood. They work by providing soothing counterpressure to a child’s sore gums, and they can also help to distract your child from their discomfort!
How Should Teething Rings Be Used?
Of course, as with anything you’re handing a young child, you’ll want to be a little careful—even if the object in question is designed for children! Consider these tips to ensure that your little one is getting the most beneficial use out of their teething ring:
- Choose the right material – Only give your child teething toys made from safe materials, and don’t give them toys that have small parts attached or liquid interiors (these are major choking hazards).
- Keep it chilled – You might give your little one a teething ring that’s been chilled (just make sure it’s not frozen solid). The cool temperature will provide additional relief for inflamed gums.
- Stay vigilant – Always monitor your child while they’re using a teething ring, and never fasten the ring around their neck to keep it in place.
- Clean and replace it as needed – Be sure you’re keeping your child’s teething ring sanitary by cleaning it in soapy water and letting it dry fully before handing it to them. Also never allow your child to use a teething toy that was previously used by another child and replace old teething rings if you notice any damage.
- Consider other sensible options – If you’re still concerned about teething rings, you might also consider gently rubbing your child’s gums with a cool washcloth or clean finger. Feeding your child soft, chilled foods such as applesauce or yogurt can also help, as can drinking cold water.
About the Practice
Here at Kids’ Smiles On Lincoln, we’re excited to offer families in the Worcester, MA community an unrivaled level of high-quality care! We understand the importance of setting up young smiles for lasting health, which is why we go above and beyond to provide personalized, compassionate care for every patient who enters through our doors! If you have any questions or comments about the blog, or you’d like to arrange a visit for your little one, feel free to contact us through our website or by telephone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 506-8859.