From the first time they smile to the first time they walk, every milestone is exciting to witness as a parent. Sadly, however, there are some that come with discomfort, like teething. It’s only natural to want to do whatever you can to ease your little one’s pain (and get some restful sleep again!), but are teething rings safe? Keep reading to learn the answer!
So, Are Teething Rings Safe?
Fortunately, the answer is “yes!” Here are a few ways you can use teething rings so they are both safe and effective:
- Keep the teething ring cool – Placing the teething ring in the refrigerator for a few minutes beforehand will help ease inflammation and provide a slight numbing effect. You shouldn’t, however, put it in the freezer. If it’s ice-cold and hard, then it can bruise your little one’s delicate gums!
- Don’t tie the ring to their clothes or neck – As a parent, you know how wiggly your little one can be at times. That’s why it’s important not to tie the teething ring to their clothes or neck; it becomes a choking hazard at that point!
- Choose the right material – Generally, teething rings with liquids and gels inside are not recommended because your little one can easily get exposed to them while chewing. There also shouldn’t be any small parts on it since they can easily break off and become dangerous.
3 Other Ways to Alleviate Teething Pain
If your child doesn’t seem to find any relief from a teething ring, then try the following:
- Give them a clean, cool, and damp washcloth to chew on (with supervision, of course)
- Gently rub their gums with a clean finger to provide counter-pressure
- Offer them cool, soft foods, like applesauce, if they are eating solids
Remember, Your Child’s Dentist Is a Great Resource!
Sometimes, parents feel like they’ve tried everything, nothing seems to be working, and there’s nowhere to turn for help. If you find yourself in this situation over the teething phase, talk to your child’s pediatric dentist! In addition to examining your child’s teeth and providing recommendations on which products to use and avoid, they can share helpful information that has worked for other families over the years.
About the Practice
We know it can be overwhelming at times trying to keep up with everything your child needs to be healthy and happy. That’s why our team at Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics is dedicated to being an on-going resource for parents in New Britain – from their child’s first checkup to their last cleaning before they head off to college. If you would like to schedule an appointment with us for your little one, you’re welcome to get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (860) 224-2419.