There are few things in life as sweet as seeing your little one grow. There is so much joy in experiencing all their “firsts”. From the first step to the first tooth, it is an exciting time for your baby and you! However, with growth, there can be a bit of discomfort. As children’s smiles develop, there can be some teething pain. Tools like teething rings can bring some ease to the process. But are they safe for your child’s oral health? Here’s what to know.
How Does a Teething Ring Help Babies?
Generally, primary teeth begin to appear when babies are about six to ten months old. While this can be an incredibly thrilling event for you, it can cause your little one a bit of pain. As the tooth makes its way through the soft tissues of the mouth and pushes itself above the gumline, your baby can feel some teething discomfort. It can even affect the happiest of babies! As a result of the teething pain, your baby may become more fussy or irritable. Some infants even begin to get swollen gums. They also can begin to drool more and chew on things.
This is where teething toys come to the rescue! Not only do they distract from the pain, but they can soothe the irritation they are experiencing from their developing tooth or teeth. This can especially provide comfort when they are cooled from being in the fridge, helping to ease any inflammation of the mouth.
Are Teething Rings Safe for Babies’ Smiles?
Yes, teething rings are considered a safe pain reliever for babies as their teeth begin to develop! Since the urge to put pressure on the gums is natural when a tooth emerges, this allows your little one to soothe their discomfort. However, there are some helpful tips to keep your baby’s oral and physical health safe as you use a teething ring to ease the pain, such as:
- Purchase a teether made of silicone or soft rubber.
- Search for teethers that are in one solid piece; a baby can swallow any extra small, attached pieces and may choke on them.
- Avoid teething rings that have liquid or gels in them as a baby can possibly chew the ring open.
- To chill a teething ring, place it in the refrigerator, not the freezer. Making the ring frozen increases the risk of a baby chewing too hard on it and damaging their gums.
- Never pin or clip a teether around a baby’s neck and clothes. Since they are always playing and moving, the toy can tangle around their neck and become a choking hazard.
- As an extra precaution, always be sure to watch over a baby as they are chewing on their teething ring.
Your baby’s growing smile brings a smile to your own face! By following the tips above for teething ring safety, you will ensure their new teeth are not causing them any discomfort as well as protecting their oral and overall health.
About the Practice
The Dental Specialists are eager to help you keep your child’s growing smile whole, healthy, and beautiful throughout every stage of their development. Their team of board-certified pediatric dentists offers a full range of dental services, including dentistry for infants and toddlers. With a focus on providing safe, comfortable, and high-quality care, they use advanced dental technology and personalized care to keep your child’s oral health in top condition. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (972) 496-0164.