Children
How can I soothe my teething baby?
Give sore gums something safe to press on — a teething ring chilled in the fridge (never the freezer), or a clean finger rubbed over the gums. For real discomfort, sugar-free paracetamol may help; check the dose with your pharmacist.
Simple ways to ease sore gums
Teething is uncomfortable more than anything, and the thing that helps most is giving those sore gums something safe to press against. A teething ring is a classic for good reason — pop it in the fridge to cool it, but never the freezer, which turns it rock-hard and can bruise little gums. A clean finger rubbed gently over the gums works a treat too.
Babies past six months can gnaw on something wholesome and firm, like a cool strip of raw veg, much the way a rusk keeps busy hands and mouths happy. A soft cloth to chew on, plenty of cuddles, and wiping away the extra dribble to keep the chin from getting sore all help your little one through it.
When to reach for pain relief — and a first visit
If your baby is genuinely miserable, sugar-free infant paracetamol or ibuprofen may take the edge off. Always check the right age and dose with your pharmacist first, and steer clear of teething gels with unclear ingredients. Fever, diarrhoea or a rash isn't caused by teething, so if those show up, see your doctor.
Teething is also a lovely moment to start good habits. As soon as that first little tooth peeks through, begin brushing it, and aim to bring your child in for a friendly first visit by their first birthday — an easy, unscary hello that heads off trouble later.
Common questions
What can I safely give my teething baby?
A fridge-chilled teething ring (never frozen), a gentle gum rub with a clean finger, or something firm and wholesome to gnaw on. For real discomfort, ask your pharmacist about age-appropriate paracetamol.
Does teething cause fever?
No — teething can bring dribbling and sore gums, but a fever, rash or diarrhoea isn't down to it. If your baby seems unwell in those ways, check in with your doctor.