In November 2023 we published a hands-on piece about baby teething and how it affects your child's mood. I wrote it from a dad's perspective, with simple tips I used at home. If your baby is drooling, chewing everything, and tugging their ears — this archive entry tells you what helps and what to watch for.
Start with pressure: firm gum massage with a clean finger can calm pain for a minute or two. Cold helps — a chilled (not frozen) teething ring or a cold wet washcloth gives quick relief. Offer something safe to chew; silicone teething toys are easy to grab and clean. Keep play gentle: extra cuddles, low lights, and quiet singing break the cycle of fussiness without much effort.
Feeding and comfort matter. Some babies nurse or take a bottle more during teething; others refuse. Try smaller, more frequent feeds and keep a calm routine around meal times. If your baby bites while nursing, gently remove them and offer a teether instead. Distraction works: a short walk, a new toy, or a change of room can shift focus away from discomfort.
About medicine: if your baby seems in real pain, talk to your pediatrician before giving acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Age and dose depend on weight and age. Avoid teething gels with benzocaine for infants unless a doctor specifically recommends them — many experts advise against routine topical numbing agents for babies.
Teething can make your baby cranky, but some signs mean it's time to call a pediatrician. High fever (over 38°C/100.4°F), persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, refusal to drink for many hours, or trouble breathing are not typical teething symptoms. If your baby is unusually sleepy or can't be comforted, seek medical advice.
Track patterns. If fussiness lasts only during the day and improves after a cold teether or cuddle, it’s probably teething. If symptoms spike or continue beyond a few days, check in with your doctor. Keep a list of what helps so you can share it during visits: which toys worked, when meds were given, and how long the upset lasted.
Practical tip: prepare a small kit — a couple of silicone teethers, a chilled washcloth, a thermometer, and your pediatrician’s number. When a tooth finally breaks through, give a quiet cheer and a hug. Teething phases come and go, and with a few simple tools you’ll get through them with fewer tears and more smiles.
As a dad, I see how tough teething can be for my little one. This article dives into the intricacies of baby teething and its impact on their mood. I'll share useful tips on keeping your baby happy despite the discomfort. Understanding what your infant is going through and learning how to soothe their pain, can help brighten up their mood. Let’s make the teething phase easier, keeping the smiles coming.
Health and Wellness