Kids' health5 min
Home remedies for teething in babies: chilled teethers, gum massage and cuddles
Drooling, chewing everything and fussy nights often mean a new tooth is on its way. These home remedies for teething in babies soothe sore gums with gentle pressure and coolness: a chilled teether, a clean-finger gum massage and, for babies eating solids, cold soft foods, plus lots of comfort.
What teething does and doesn't cause
First teeth usually appear between 6 and 12 months. Teething can cause drooling, red cheeks, gum rubbing and irritability. It does not cause high fever, diarrhoea or a rash on the body; those need to be checked separately.
Traditional Indian care includes gentle gum massage and chilled fruit for older babies. Avoid old practices such as rubbing honey, sugar or alcohol on the gums.
Ingredients
- A clean silicone teething ring, chilled in the fridge
- A clean soft cloth, wet and chilled
- For babies on solids: chilled cucumber or carrot sticks (large, under supervision) or chilled mashed fruit
How to prepare
- Chill the teether or wet cloth in the fridge for 30 minutes (not the freezer).
- Wash your hands and trim your nails before a gum massage.
How to use
- Let the baby chew the chilled teether or cloth when gums seem sore.
- Rub the gums gently with a clean finger for a minute or two.
- Offer chilled soft foods at mealtimes for babies already on solids, and wipe drool often to protect the skin.
Helpful habits
- Extra cuddles, feeds and a calm bedtime routine help more than anything.
- Apply a thin layer of coconut oil or a barrier cream on the chin if drool causes a rash.
- Start brushing new teeth with a soft baby brush and a rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste.
Precautions
- Do not use frozen teethers, amber necklaces, teething bracelets or anything tied around the neck (choking and strangulation risk).
- Do not rub honey, sugar, alcohol, clove oil or numbing gels on the gums unless a doctor advises.
- See a doctor for fever above 38°C, diarrhoea, rash, refusing feeds or unusual drowsiness; don't blame these on teething.
Frequently asked questions
What can I give my baby for teething pain naturally?
- A chilled teether, a cool wet cloth, gum massage and extra comfort are safe first steps. Ask your doctor before any medicine.
Does teething cause fever and loose motions?
- Teething may raise the temperature very slightly, but it does not cause a true fever or diarrhoea. Get those checked.
Can I use clove oil for teething?
- No. Clove oil is too strong for babies and can irritate or harm the mouth.
