Teething gel can provide temporary relief for babies experiencing teething discomfort. However, it is important to use it sparingly and consult with a pediatrician before use, as some gels may contain ingredients that could be harmful to infants.
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Teething is a milestone in a baby’s development that can be accompanied by discomfort and irritability. Many parents turn to teething gels as a potential solution to ease their baby’s teething pain. While teething gels can provide temporary relief, it is important to understand their usage, potential risks, and consult with a pediatrician before using them.
Teething gels typically contain a local anesthetic and/or a mild antiseptic to numb the gums and reduce inflammation. They are applied topically on the affected area using a clean finger or a cotton swab. The numbing effect can alleviate discomfort, allowing babies to eat, sleep, and play more comfortably.
However, it is crucial to use teething gels sparingly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some teething gels may contain ingredients, such as benzocaine, which can pose risks to infants. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings against the use of over-the-counter teething gels containing benzocaine in children under the age of two, as it can lead to a rare but serious condition known as methemoglobinemia.
To ensure the safety of your baby, consulting with a pediatrician or a healthcare professional is highly recommended. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your baby’s age, health, and any individual concerns you may have. They may suggest alternative methods for teething pain relief, such as using cold teething rings, wet washcloths, or massaging the gums with clean fingers.
In perspective, Dr. William Sears, a renowned pediatrician, suggests, “Before using any teething remedy, consult your pediatrician. Home remedies have the attraction of being natural, safe, and free, but you still need to use them judiciously.” This quote emphasizes the importance of seeking expert advice before resorting to teething gels or any other remedies.
In addition to seeking professional advice, here are some interesting facts about teething:
- Teething can begin as early as 3 months and typically ends by the age of 3.
- The order in which teeth erupt can vary, but the two front bottom teeth (lower central incisors) usually appear first.
- The discomfort experienced during teething is not caused by the tooth breaking through the gum but rather by the pressure it exerts.
- Some babies may experience mild symptoms like drooling and irritability, while others may have more pronounced symptoms like swollen gums and decreased appetite.
- Teething can sometimes cause a slight increase in body temperature, but it is unrelated to fever. If your baby has a high fever, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
In conclusion, while teething gels can provide temporary relief for babies during their teething journey, it is essential to use them cautiously, seek guidance from a pediatrician, and be aware of potential risks associated with certain ingredients. Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Putting the safety and well-being of your little one first is always the best approach.
There are other opinions
But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against using any sort of topical medication to treat teething pain in children, including prescription or OTC creams and gels, or homeopathic teething tablets. They offer little to no benefit and are associated with serious risk.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also has recommended that parents not use homeopathic teething gels or tablets, which might pose a health risk to babies.
But since September 2016, the FDA recommends against using any holistic teething gels, liquids or tablets whatsoever, stating they can pose a risk to babies and other children.
To keep your baby safe, avoid using: Over-the-counter remedies, including homeopathic teething tablets. The benefits of topical gels and teething tablets haven’t been demonstrated.
These products should not be used for teething because they can be dangerous and are not useful because they wash out of a baby’s mouth within minutes.
Tooth-numbing gels are extremely dangerous for infants under two years of age. The active ingredient, benzocaine, is toxic to infants and toddlers. It can cause a life-threatening condition called methemoglobinemia, a blood disorder that affects the blood’s ability to carry oxygen.
Response via video
The reviewer introduces and reviews Dr. Talbot’s Soothing Gel, a teething product that provides relief for sore gums in babies with new teeth coming in. The gel is made with natural ingredients and is safe to swallow, free of harmful substances like paraben, BPA, benzocaine, and belladonna. It also comes with a bonus gum teether that is dishwasher safe and provides comfort to the baby’s gums. The reviewer highly recommends this product to parents dealing with teething pain, emphasizing its natural ingredients, safe swallowing, and included teether. They give it a 4-star rating and encourage viewers to check out the TTPM Baby YouTube channel for more baby gear reviews.