How To

How to Comfort a Teething Child

Contributor
By Sarra Jackson
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Teething can be very painful and uncomfortable for a child. There are a few ways to relieve some of the pain and comfort a baby. Pressure is often preferred by babies, since most will be chewing on their fingers when they are teething. Drool is another common sign of teething. There are a few different things to do to comfort a teething child that you will find below.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Clean Finger
  • Cooled Teething Rings
  • Cold Washcloths
  • Cold Pacifier

    How to Comfort a Teething Child

  1. Step 1

    Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you can handle the pressure, let your baby chew on your clean fingers.

  2. Step 2

    Massage your child's gums with clean fingers. Rub back and forth over the gums with a little pressure to ease any teething pain. It may take a few rubs before the child is able to feel a difference and enjoy the massage. Not all children will like it, and will push your fingers out of their mouth.

  3. Step 3

    Let a teething ring cool overnight in your fridge. Take it out and let the child chomp on the harder object.

  4. Step 4

    Wet a washcloth and put it in the freezer overnight. Give it to your child throughout the day if they enjoy something softer to chew on.

  5. Step 5

    Place a pacifier in the freezer if you're child uses one of these. Give them to your child throughout the day when they are experiencing teething pain.

  6. Step 6

    Ask your pediatrician if they recommend any medication, including any over the counter medicine.

  7. Step 7

    Give your child extra hugs and kisses. A little extra attention from you is always a great way at helping ease a child's pain.

Tips & Warnings
  • Place multiple wash clothes, pacifiers, or teething rings in the fridge or freezer overnight so you always have one ready during the day.
  • Don't let your child chew on cold or frozen food objects, such as bagels or vegetables as they are choking hazards.
  • Carefully check any pacifier you give to your child for any breakage or loose parts. Do not give your baby a damaged pacifer.
  • Tell your doctor if your child is experiencing a low-grade fever, loose stools, or runny nose. They may be a symptom of teething but you should still let your doctor know.

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