Avoid Using Teething Gels On Your Baby’s Gums

Teething isn’t fun for anyone, parents or baby! As soon as your baby starts showing signs of a new tooth coming through, you may reach for the pain relieving oral gels that have been recommended by other parents, but you may want to rethink this choice.

According to the FDA, these numbing products could actually be harming your baby. Below is a list of concerns regarding teething gels:

• An accidental overdose is the primary concern. Babies will swallow the gel if there’s too much in their mouths. Parents who believe the gels are safe are applying too much, too often and have even soaked their child’s pacifier in the gel. These are very dangerous habits that have already harmed many children.
• Children who suffer from an overdose of the lidocaine contained in teething gels have suffered heart problems, brain injuries, vision problems, seizures and death. These are terrifying consequences, all of which can be avoided.
• Baby Orajel and Anbesol, which contain benzocaine, can lead to methemglobinemia, a disorder that reduces the amount of oxygen carried in the bloodstream.

Instead of using teething gels, Great Outdoors Pediatric Dentistry has put together a list of safe ways to help ease your child’s teething discomfort and allow you to keep your sanity!

• Offer your child a clean washcloth cooled with running water to teeth on. The cold will ease swelling and chewing on the textured cloth will ease the pain of the erupting tooth.
• Pop baby’s pacifier or teething ring in the freezer for a few minutes.
• Gently rub your baby’s gums with your finger. This can provide counter-pressure to the tooth that’s erupting, easing the pain.

For more teething tips or to schedule your child’s first dental appointment, please call Great Outdoors Pediatric Dentistry, located in Dover, New Hampshire.