Helping a teething toddler can feel hard. Their gums hurt. They are cranky. This guide shows you simple ways to help your little one feel better. It gives tips on finding relief for toddler teething pain. It talks about different methods. You can try things at home. This guide covers home remedies for teething discomfort and natural remedies for toddler teething. It also touches on when you might need medicine, like over-the-counter pain relief for teething toddlers, and if teething gels safe for toddlers are an option.
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Spotting Teething Trouble
Toddlers show teething pain in many ways. These are toddler teething symptoms. What does it look like when a toddler is teething? You might see these signs. An 18 month old shows these same signs. Knowing the signs helps you act fast.
Common Signals Your Toddler Hurts
- More Drool: Their mouth might make more spit. Lots of bibs help keep them dry. Too much wetness can cause a rash. Wipe their chin gently.
- Red, Swollen Gums: Look inside their mouth. Do the gums look red? Are they puffy where a tooth is coming in? This is a clear sign of pain.
- Chewing on Everything: They put things in their mouth. They want to bite down hard. They do this to feel better. Hard toys or clean fingers help.
- Cranky Mood: They seem fussy or upset more than usual. They might cry a lot. They don’t know how else to show they hurt.
- Waking at Night: Teething pain can get worse when lying down. It can wake them up. How to soothe a teething toddler at night is a common worry for parents.
- Less Hungry: Sometimes they don’t want to eat. Sucking or chewing on food might hurt their gums. Offer softer foods.
- Rubbing Face or Ear: They might pull at their ear or rub their cheek. The pain can travel. Check their ear for infection too, just to be sure.
- Slight Rise in Temp: A very low fever might happen. But a high fever is usually not from teething. Call the doctor if they have a high fever.
- Rash on Chin or Face: The extra drool can make their skin red and bumpy. Keep the area clean and dry. A little balm can help protect skin.
- Changed Poops: Some parents say teething changes their toddler’s poop. This is not a proven medical fact. If your toddler has bad diarrhea, call the doctor. It might be something else.
These signs might come and go. Not all toddlers show all signs. Some teeth hurt more than others.
Recognizing the Tooth Coming In
You might even see the tooth! Look for a tiny white bump under the gum. The gum might look thin or bruised right there. Seeing the tooth helps you know for sure that teething is the problem.
Finding Relief for Teething Pain
There are many ways to help sore gums. You can try things at home. These are home remedies for teething discomfort. Some people like natural remedies for toddler teething. Other times, you might need medicine. This is called over-the-counter pain relief for teething toddlers. Some parents also use gels. We will talk about teething gels safe for toddlers. Finding what works best for your child is key. Every toddler is different.
Comfort from Cool Things
Coolness can numb the pain. It feels good on hot, sore gums.
Cold Teethers
- Chilled Toys: Put a teething toy in the fridge. Not the freezer. Too cold can hurt. A cold toy is nice to chew on. The best teething toys for 1-2 year olds are safe to chill. They are made of safe stuff. They are big enough not to choke on. They have textures that feel good.
- Cold Washcloth: Get a clean washcloth wet. Twist out the extra water. Put it in the fridge for a bit. Your toddler can chew on the cool, wet cloth. It gives comfort.
- Cold Food: Offer cool foods if your toddler is eating solids. Yogurt, applesauce, or chilled fruit purees can help. Make sure the food is safe for their age. Chilled fruit chunks in a mesh feeder can be good. They can bite it safely.
Gentle Pressure on Gums
Rubbing the gums can feel nice. It takes away some of the ache.
Massaging Gums
- Clean Finger: Wash your hands well. Rub your clean finger gently on your toddler’s sore gums. You can use a little pressure. Some toddlers love this feeling. It helps calm them down.
- Gum Massager: You can buy little tools for this. They fit on your finger. Or they are small brushes. They are soft and made for babies and toddlers. Use them to rub the gums gently.
Things to Chew On
Chewing helps work the tooth through the gum. It also distracts from the pain.
Teething Toys for Toddlers
- Safe Materials: Look for toys made of safe rubber or silicone. Check labels. They should be BPA-free and safe for chewing.
- Different Textures: Toys with bumps or ridges feel different. They can massage gums in new ways. Some toddlers like one texture best.
- Easy to Hold: Make sure the toy is easy for tiny hands to grip. If they can hold it, they can chew it.
- Size Matters: The toy should be big enough. It should not fit fully in their mouth. This helps prevent choking. The best teething toys for 1-2 year olds are made with their size in mind. They are durable too. Toddlers are strong chewers!
- Popular Types:
- Rings with textures.
- Animal shapes they can bite.
- Toys that vibrate a little when chewed.
- Silicone teethers that can be chilled.
- Teething biscuits or crackers (use with care, check ingredients, and supervise closely). These can make a mess but feel good on gums.
Other Chewable Items
- Silicone Spoons: The tip of a soft silicone spoon can be good to chew on.
- Clean, Firm Rubber Toys: Make sure any toy they chew is clean and safe. Hard plastic toys are not good for teething gums.
Natural Relief Methods
Many parents look for natural remedies for toddler teething. These use simple things found at home or in nature.
- Chamomile: This herb can help calm and soothe. You can give weak chamomile tea (cool it down!) in a sippy cup. Or you can wet a washcloth with cool chamomile tea and let them chew it. Chamomile is known to help with sleep too, which is great for how to soothe a teething toddler at night. Make sure the tea has no sugar.
- Vanilla Extract: Some people put a tiny bit of pure vanilla extract on their finger and rub the gums. The taste might distract them. Some people say it helps numb a little. Use just a tiny drop. Make sure it’s real vanilla, not fake.
- Breast Milk or Formula Ice Pops: If your toddler takes a bottle, you can freeze breast milk or formula into small popsicles. They can chew on these. It’s cool and soothing. It also gives them food. Only do this if they are old enough for simple solids or can handle the texture.
- Baltic Amber Teething Necklaces: Important Safety Note: Many groups, like the FDA, warn against these. They are a choking risk. The beads can break off. The necklace itself is a strangling risk. It is not a safe choice for babies or toddlers. Do NOT use amber necklaces. This is key for teething pain relief for toddlers. Safety comes first.
These natural methods are often gentle. Always watch your toddler when they are using anything new for teething.
Medicines for Pain
Sometimes, home and natural methods are not enough. Teething pain can be bad. Over-the-counter pain relief for teething toddlers can help.
Pain Relievers
- Acetaminophen (like Tylenol): This medicine helps lower pain and fever. It is safe for toddlers when given in the right amount.
- Ibuprofen (like Motrin or Advil): This medicine also helps with pain and swelling. It can be good for teething. But it is only for babies older than 6 months.
- Getting the Right Amount: It is VERY important to give the right dose. The dose is based on your toddler’s weight. Read the box carefully. Or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Using too much can be dangerous. Use the little cup or syringe that comes with the medicine. A kitchen spoon is not accurate. Only give medicine if your toddler is really suffering and other things don’t work. Don’t give it “just in case.”
Teething Gels and Rubs
- What They Are: These are gels or creams you rub on the gums. Some have a numbing medicine in them.
- Safety Concerns: Many doctors and health groups (like the FDA) do NOT recommend these. Especially gels with benzocaine. Benzocaine can cause a rare but serious blood problem. Other gels might not have benzocaine but might still not be safe or helpful. They can numb the back of the throat, which can make it hard for the toddler to swallow. They also wash away quickly in the mouth.
- Teething Gels Safe for Toddlers? Most health experts say it is best to avoid them. The risks seem bigger than the benefits. Rubbing the gums with your clean finger is a safer way to give pressure. If you are thinking about a gel, talk to your doctor first. Make sure you know what is in it.
Things to Avoid Completely
- Amber Teething Necklaces or Bracelets: Serious choking and strangling danger. DO NOT USE.
- Teething Gels with Benzocaine: Risky side effects. Avoid these. Most other gels are not recommended either.
- Homeopathic Teething Tablets/Liquids: Some have had unsafe levels of belladonna, a poison. The FDA has warned against these. DO NOT USE.
- Frozen Teethers or Foods: Items that are frozen solid can hurt gums more. They can also stick to the tongue or lips and cause injury. Use chilled items, not frozen.
- Alcohol on Gums: Never rub alcohol on a toddler’s gums. It is not safe.
Helping Your Teething Toddler at Night
Nighttime can be the hardest. The pain seems worse. Your toddler might wake up crying. How to soothe a teething toddler at night needs special steps.
Making Nights Easier
- Maintain Bedtime Routine: Stick to your usual bedtime steps. A bath, stories, and quiet time help signal sleep. This routine is calming even when they hurt.
- Offer Comfort Before Bed: Give a chilled teether or gently rub gums before tuck-in. This might help ease pain before they fall asleep.
- Pain Medicine if Needed: If your doctor says it’s okay, and your toddler is in clear pain, a dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen before bed can help. Time it so the medicine works when you need it most (around bedtime). This is part of using over-the-counter pain relief for teething toddlers wisely. Only use it when pain is truly disruptive.
- Quick Comfort When They Wake: If they wake up crying from pain, go to them quickly. Offer a cool teether. Rub their gums gently. Give a quick cuddle.
- Keep Lights Low: When you go in, keep the room dark or use a very dim light. This helps them stay sleepy. Avoid turning on bright lights.
- Soothe in Their Room: Try to soothe them while they stay in their crib or bed. Picking them up every time might become a habit. Pat their back. Sing softly. Rub gums. The goal is to help them fall back asleep there.
- Offer a Sip of Water: If they use a sippy cup, a little cool water might feel good on their gums.
- Extra Comfort Items: A special blanket or stuffed animal might help them feel safe.
- Be Patient: Teething nights are tough for everyone. Your toddler isn’t trying to be difficult. They are in pain. Stay calm and offer gentle comfort.
If nighttime pain is constant and severe, talk to your doctor. They can offer more advice or check for other issues.
The Right Tools: Best Teething Toys
Picking the right toys is important. The best teething toys for 1-2 year olds are safe, helpful, and fun.
What Makes a Good Teething Toy
- Safety First:
- Look for labels like “BPA-free,” “PVC-free,” “phthalate-free.”
- Make sure there are no small parts that can break off.
- The toy should be washable. You’ll wash it often!
- It should be firm enough to chew but not hard enough to hurt gums.
- It should be too big to swallow whole.
- Good to Chew On:
- Different textures (bumps, ridges, smooth parts).
- Shape that reaches back gums.
- Easy for tiny hands to hold.
- Some can be chilled in the fridge.
- Engaging:
- Bright colors can be nice.
- Some toys have little rattles or crinkles (if safe). This distracts them.
Popular Types of Teething Toys
Here are some examples of toys that often work well for toddlers:
| Toy Type | What it Is | Why it Helps | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone Teething Rings | Soft rings made of silicone, often textured. | Easy to hold, different textures to chew on. | Can often be chilled. |
| Animal Shaped Teethers | Silicone or rubber toys shaped like animals. | Fun shapes, easy to grasp, different parts. | Choose simple designs, no small pieces. |
| Water-Filled Teethers | Plastic rings or shapes filled with water. | Can be chilled very well. | Check for leaks often, avoid freezing. |
| Teething Mitts/Gloves | Fabric glove with a silicone chew pad. | Good for young toddlers who can’t hold toys. | Less common for older toddlers (1-2 yrs). |
| Wood Teethers | Made from untreated, smooth wood. | Natural material, firm to chew. | Needs cleaning, check for splinters. |
| Vibrating Teethers | Toys that vibrate when bitten or pressed. | Vibration can distract and soothe gums. | Need batteries, make noise. |
| Mesh or Silicone Feeders | Pouch to put food in for chewing. | Safe way to chew cold fruit or soft food. | Needs constant cleaning, supervise use. |
When buying teething toys for 1-2 year olds, think about what your child likes. Do they like soft things? Hard things? Things that are bumpy? Trying a few types might help you find a favorite. Always clean teething toys often with soap and water. They get dropped on the floor a lot!
When Does Teething End?
Teething feels like forever! You might wonder when does toddler teething end? Good news: it does end. Most children finish getting all their baby teeth by a certain age.
The Finish Line for Baby Teeth
- Molars: The last teeth to come in are usually the back molars. These are big teeth and can cause a lot of pain. The 1-year molars usually come in between 12 and 18 months. The 2-year molars (second molars) come in between 20 and 33 months.
- All Done: Most kids have all 20 of their baby teeth by their third birthday. So, usually by age 3, teething is over for the baby teeth.
- Later Teething: Permanent teeth start coming in much later, around age 6. But that is a different process. The intense pain of toddler teething is usually done by age 3.
Knowing when does toddler teething end can give parents hope! You are not dealing with this forever. Each tooth that comes in is one step closer to the end.
Keeping Gums Healthy During Teething
Even when teeth are just coming in, good mouth care is important.
Simple Steps for Mouth Health
- Wipe Gums: Even before teeth show, wipe gums gently with a soft cloth. This cleans away milk or food bits.
- Brush First Teeth: As soon as a tooth pops through, start brushing it. Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) for kids under 3.
- Use a Soft Brush: Get a toothbrush with a small head and very soft bristles. Let your toddler hold it too, to practice.
- Brush Twice a Day: Brush in the morning and before bed.
- See a Dentist: The first dentist visit should be around the first birthday, or when the first tooth appears. The dentist can check on teething and mouth health.
Taking care of gums and new teeth prevents problems later.
More Tips for Teething Time
Beyond the main ways to help, here are a few more ideas.
- Stay Calm: Your toddler feels your stress. If you are calm, it helps them feel safer.
- Offer Distraction: Sometimes, taking their mind off the pain is best. Play a game. Read a book. Go for a walk. Distraction is a powerful tool for teething pain relief for toddlers.
- Plenty of Hugs: Extra cuddles and closeness can make a big difference. Physical touch is very comforting.
- Offer Fluids: Teething toddlers might not want to eat, but make sure they drink enough. Cool drinks can feel good.
Remember that teething is a normal part of growing up. It is tough, but it passes. You are doing a great job helping your little one through it.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are common things parents ask about toddler teething.
h5 Is teething pain constant?
No, the pain usually comes and goes. It might be worse right before a tooth breaks through the gum. It can be bad for a few days, then get better, then get worse again when the next tooth moves.
h5 Can teething cause diarrhea or fever?
Most doctors say teething does not cause high fever or bad diarrhea. A very slight rise in temperature might happen, but not a true fever (usually over 101°F or 38.3°C). If your toddler has a high fever or bad diarrhea, it is likely caused by a sickness, not just teething. Call your doctor.
h5 Are amber necklaces safe for teething?
No, absolutely not. Health groups worldwide warn against them. They are a serious choking and strangling risk for babies and toddlers. Do not use them for teething pain relief for toddlers.
h5 What are the best teething toys for a toddler?
The best ones are safe (BPA-free, no small parts), easy to hold, offer different textures, and can often be chilled. Silicone rings, textured animal shapes, and cold-friendly teethers are popular. The best ones are the ones your toddler likes and uses safely.
h5 When does toddler teething end?
Most children have all their baby teeth by age 3. The last ones to come in are usually the back molars, between 20 and 33 months.
h5 Can I use teething gels?
Most health experts advise against them, especially those with benzocaine, which can be dangerous. Even gels without benzocaine may not be safe or helpful and can pose a swallowing risk. Rubbing gums with a clean finger is a safer option. Talk to your doctor if you feel gels are needed.
h5 How can I help my teething toddler sleep better at night?
Stick to a calming bedtime routine. Offer cool teethers or gum rubs before bed. If pain is bad, ask your doctor about giving a safe dose of pain reliever before sleep. When they wake, offer quick, quiet comfort like gum massage or a chilled teether in their room.
h5 What are natural remedies for toddler teething?
Things like offering cool chamomile tea, gentle gum massage, or chilled breast milk/formula pops can help. Avoid unsafe items like amber necklaces or certain homeopathic products.
h5 What signs of teething in 18 month old should I look for?
An 18 month old will show signs similar to younger babies teething, such as increased drooling, red/swollen gums, wanting to chew on things, fussiness, and maybe disturbed sleep. They are likely getting their first set of molars around this age.
h5 What home remedies for teething discomfort work well?
Simple remedies like using a chilled washcloth or safe, chilled teething toys, offering cold safe foods, and giving gentle gum massage with a clean finger are good places to start.
h5 When should I use over-the-counter pain relief for teething toddlers?
Only use medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if your toddler is very uncomfortable and other methods are not helping. Always use the correct dose based on their weight, as directed by your doctor or the package instructions. Do not use it routinely or “just in case.”
Caring for a teething toddler takes patience and trial and error. Try different methods to see what gives your little one the most comfort. You are doing your best through this tricky stage!