Preventing gum swelling during teething

To prevent gum swelling during teething, you can try the following steps:

1. Offer a teething toy: Offer your baby a cold, soft, and chewable object, such as a wet washcloth, a frozen bagel, or a specially designed teething toy.
2. Massage gums: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help to soothe them and reduce swelling.
3. Use teething gels: Teething gels containing a mild local anaesthetics can be applied to the gums to help soothe pain and swelling.
4. Offer a cold drink: Encourage your baby to suck on a cold drink, such as water or a cooled teething ring, to help reduce swelling and numb the gums.
5. Give pain relief medication: If your baby is in significant pain, you can give them over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed by your doctor.
6. Avoid teething biscuits: Teething biscuits can be high in sugar and may cause further swelling.

Remember, these steps may provide temporary relief and it is best to consult a paediatrician if you have concerns about your baby’s teething.

Some activities to do:

1. Use teething products safely: Be mindful of the teething products you use. Some teething necklaces and toys may pose a choking hazard, and others may contain harmful chemicals. Look for products that are BPA-free, phthalate-free, and FDA approved.
2. Avoid teething biscuits: Teething biscuits can be high in sugar and may cause further swelling. Instead, offer your baby a cold fruit or vegetable puree or a frozen banana.
3. Keep gums clean: Regularly cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft cloth can help to remove bacteria that can contribute to swelling.
4. Soothe with a warm washcloth: Placing a warm, damp washcloth on your baby’s gums can help to soothe and reduce swelling.
5. Breastfeed or give a bottle: Allowing your baby to suck during feeding can help to stimulate the gums and provide relief from teething pain.

During teething, it is important to avoid certain practices that can worsen gum swelling and increase discomfort for the baby.

Some things to avoid include:

1. Avoid using numbing gels containing benzocaine: This ingredient can be harmful and should not be used on infants.
2. Avoid using home remedies without consulting a doctor: Some home remedies, such as clove oil, can be toxic to babies.
3. Avoid using teething products that are not FDA approved: Some teething products may contain harmful chemicals, such as lead or phthalates, and may pose a choking hazard. Always look for products that are FDA approved.
4. Avoid giving teething biscuits: Teething biscuits can be high in sugar, which can cause further swelling and can also lead to tooth decay.
5. Avoid using teething necklaces: Teething necklaces can pose a choking hazard and may not be safe for infants.
6. Avoid overusing pain relief medication: Overusing pain relief medication can be harmful and should only be used as directed by a doctor.
7. Avoid harsh cleaning products: Harsh cleaning products can irritate a baby’s gums and cause further swelling. Stick to using a soft cloth and warm water.

Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one baby may not work for another. Be mindful of these practices and always consult with a pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby’s teething.