How to soothe a teething baby

Teething is a natural part of your baby’s development, but it can be an uncomfortable time for both babies and parents. As baby teeth gradually emerge through the gums, your little one may become fussier than usual, drool more, or want to chew on safe objects.

Fortunately, understanding when teething begins and recognising the signs can help. Parents can relieve pain and make this phase more manageable by following these tips on how to soothe baby during teething.

Milton’s sterilising products can also help. Ensuring your baby puts clean objects in their mouth can reduce inflammation and infection risk during this trying time, which we explain below.

When does teething begin?

Babies normally start teething between 6 and 12 months as part of the normal, healthy development process. Although, every child develops differently. Some babies get their first tooth earlier, while others may not begin teething until after their first birthday.

Dentists describe teeth as “erupting” due to how they punch through the soft gum tissue. You should start seeing fully formed teeth around your child’s first birthday.

Usually, the lower teeth will emerge first, followed by the upper. Molars at the back of the mouth come through last.

What are the common signs of teething?

TeTeething can make babies feel uncomfortable, so they will usually show some signs of discomfort or irritation.

Teething symptoms include:

• Visibly red or sore gums when you peer into their mouths
• A low-level fever (usually no higher than 37.8°C)
• Pain that makes it harder for them to sleep
• Rosiness in the cheek area (usually due to gum irritation)
• A need to chew or gnaw on things around the house
• Extra drooling compared to normal
• Being fussier or more irritable than normal
• Rubbing their ears due to pain radiating from the teeth and gums

As a parent, it is important to understand that most of these symptoms are entirely normal. Teething is a stage babies have had to go through for thousands of years, however, it is natural to worry as a parent.

You may want to see a paediatrician if you see these symptoms develop alongside other signs, like vomiting or diarrhoea. These more serious issues are not common symptoms of teething.

How to relieve teething pain

It can be challenging to watch your baby suffer and your natural response will be to ask; “how can I help?”. Fortunately, there are plenty of non-medical ways to soothe baby during teething.

1. Chewing Toys

Giving your baby a clean teething ring or silicone teething toy provides something safe to chew on, which may help relieve pressure on sore gums. Silicone- based products are safe and non-toxic to infants.

Many teething rings can be cooled in the refrigerator before use. Avoid freezing teething toys, as extremely cold surfaces can be uncomfortable for delicate gums.

Make sure you sterilise items first with Milton’s cold water steriliser. It kills 99.9% of germs in 15 minutes, making sure all chew toys are safe.

2. Gum Massages

Gum massages help to relieve some of the pressure and inflammation that can build up in the gums while soothing your child at the same time.

Wash your hands thoroughly before placing a clean finger on your baby’s gums and applying light pressure using small circular motions. Stop if your baby seems distressed or pulls away.

3. Distractions

Sometimes, you can take your baby’s mind off the pain by giving them something else to think about. Comfort, play and reassurance can help take your baby’s attention away from discomfort.

Reading stories, singing, cuddling or offering a favourite toy or game may help settle a baby who is feeling unsettled and reduce fussiness.

4. Cold Drinks or Food

For babies over 6 months, providing a chilled beverage can help reduce inflammatory pain (similar to ice packs).

For babies who have started eating solid foods, cool foods such as yoghurt, apple sauce or mashed banana may help soothe sore gums.

Avoid offering frozen foods directly against the gums, as very hard or frozen items may be uncomfortable.

Continue offering your baby’s usual milk feeds, as milk remains their main source of nutrition during early infancy.

5. Drool Reduction

While it won’t soothe teeth directly, reducing drool can reduce irritation to exposed skin around the mouth, preventing rashes.

Use bibs to keep the chest and mouth area clean and apply moisturising ointment to affected areas if necessary.

Remedies to Avoid During Teething

Some teething products or approaches are not recommended because they may carry risks.

Avoid:

• Teething necklaces or bracelets as they can present choking or strangulation hazards.
• Frozen teething rings or very hard objects as they may be uncomfortable or unsafe for delicate gums.
• Using medicines or teething gels without advice, especially for younger babies.

If you are unsure whether a teething product is suitable for your baby, speak with a pharmacist, dentist or healthcare professional.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Contact a healthcare professional if your baby:

• Has a temperature of 38°C or above
• Has persistent vomiting or diarrhoea
• Is unusually sleepy, difficult to wake or appears very unwell
• Refuses feeds for an extended period
• Shows symptoms that concern you

Diarrhoea, vomiting and significant illness are not considered typical symptoms of teething. If these symptoms occur, particularly alongside fever or signs that your baby is unwell, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

The importance of sterilisation during teething

During teething, babies want to put everything in their mouths. Keeping frequently used items clean can help reduce exposure to everyday germs.

Milton’s sterilisation products are designed for infants and parents. They meet various World Health Organisation and European Food Safety Authority standards, proving their effectiveness and usefulness for modern parenting.

These accolades come from Milton’s long history as a trusted name in baby care. The brand first emerged in 1916 to fight hospital infections and has since become a staple for parents wanting to eliminate bacteria from toys, pacifiers, and food prep utensils.

Shop our wide range of sterilising and hygiene products to protect your baby from germs at Woolworths, Coles, Chemist Warehouse, BIG W, Baby Bunting, IGA and other major supermarkets.