Health Information and Self Care Advice for Scotland

Teething

Treatment

There are several things that you can try to help relieve the discomfort of teething:

• Rub a small amount of infant teething gel onto the affected gum area with a clean finger and gently massage it into the gums. Some of these contain a mild local anaesthetic to dull the pain. Alternatively, use infant liquid paracetamol (e.g. Calpol).
• A chilled teething ring may distract the child whilst helping to soothe their sore gums.  Be sure to take the ring out of the freezer before it becomes rock hard to avoid bruising already sore gums. Never tie a teething ring around a baby's neck.
• Chewing on hard biscuits, frozen bananas or chilled raw carrot can help but should be given under careful supervision (in case a large piece breaks off in the mouth).
• Apply a little petroleum jelly or aqueous cream around the mouth and chin to prevent soreness from excessive dribbling and wipe your baby's face often with a cloth to remove the dribble and prevent rashes from developing.
• Never place an aspirin against the tooth and don't rub whisky on your baby's gums.

If you are uncertain, always check with your dentist or health visitor.

Last updated on 26 July 2010 10:46 AM