Safe teething solutions for babies that actually help
Teething is one of those universal parenting headaches. Babies drool, chew, get fussy, and sometimes wake at night. The good news: most babies get through it with simple, low-risk measures you can do at home. Below are clear, practical options that calm pain and reduce frustration without risky products.
What works (and how to use it)
Cold is your friend. Give your baby a chilled (not frozen) teething ring, a cold spoon, or a damp washcloth kept in the fridge. The cool temperature numbs the gums and helps reduce swelling. Supervise every time.
Gum massage is quick and effective. Wash your hands and rub a clean finger gently over the baby’s gums. Pressure helps relieve pain for many infants and often stops the crying faster than you expect.
Safe chew toys are better than household objects. Offer silicone or rubber teething toys designed for infants. Avoid hard items that can splinter. Soft, textured rings and short handles are easiest for little hands.
Simple distraction helps too. A change of position, a walk, or a favorite song can shift focus away from discomfort. Sometimes mood and sleep catch up faster than the teething itself.
If your baby seems miserable and home measures don’t help, talk to your pediatrician about acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Follow weight-based dosing exactly and get the right concentration for infants. Note: ibuprofen is generally recommended only for babies older than 6 months; your doctor will confirm what’s safe for your child.
What to avoid and when to call the doctor
Skip topical numbing gels with benzocaine for young children. The FDA warns against benzocaine products in infants because they can cause rare but serious blood problems. Don’t use lidocaine, alcohol, or unproven home remedies either.
Avoid teething necklaces and bracelets. They can break and cause choking or strangulation. Also watch for recalled homeopathic teething tablets that contained harmful ingredients; if you’re unsure, ask your pharmacist or pediatrician.
Call your pediatrician if your baby has a high fever, prolonged diarrhea, or a rash that isn’t explained by teething. Mild temperature and drooling are normal, but true fever (over 100.4°F or 38°C in young infants) needs medical advice. Also seek help if your baby stops feeding, shows signs of infection around the mouth, or seems unusually listless.
Teething is temporary. Use safe cooling, gentle massage, approved chew toys, and medicine only when advised. When in doubt, contact your pediatrician—it's better to check than to guess.
