Teething is a natural part of a baby's development, but it can be a challenging time for both a parent and their baby. As your baby's tiny teeth begin to emerge, they may experience discomfort, fussiness, and excessive drooling.
Many parents wonder if using a pacifier, also known as a dummy or soother, can help alleviate their baby's teething pain.
Got questions about pacifiers and teething? This blog is for you. We'll help you understand how they work together and offer tips to help you and your baby with any teething troubles.
The symptoms of teething
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. While every baby experiences it differently, common teething symptoms include fussiness, drooling, swollen gums, and chewing on everything and anything.
Teething timeline
Teething typically starts around 6 months of age, but it can vary from baby to baby. Some babies may start teething earlier or later than others. The first teeth to usually appear are the two central incisors on the bottom, followed by the upper central incisors.
Are pacifiers good for teething?
Yes, pacifiers can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with teething, as well as being a general source of comfort for babies.
The sucking motion can help to soothe sore gums, and the pressure can help stimulate the eruption of a baby's first teeth. However, it's important to use them in moderation and to talk to your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
Choosing the right pacifier for a teething baby
You should consider the following factors when choosing a pacifier for your teething baby:
- Material: Choose BPA-free pacifiers made from soft silicone that won’t irritate your baby’s gum.
- Shape: A symmetrical shape that’s always the right way up can be easier for babies to hold and manipulate and also helps to prevent misalignment of the teeth and jaw.
- Size: Choose a pacifier that is age-appropriate to ensure a proper fit and prevent choking.
- One-piece design: Pacifiers with fewer parts to disassemble and clean reduce the risk of bacteria buildup. With fewer pieces, the pacifier is also less likely to come apart or break, meaning fewer small parts that could potentially pose a choking hazard.
- Pacifier clip-friendly: A pacifier clip can help keep your baby’s soother clean and stop it getting lost.
Alternatives to pacifiers for teething relief
Not all babies will accept a pacifier, so don't force it. If your baby isn't interested in a pacifier or you prefer to avoid using one, there are other ways to soothe a teething baby.
- Cool, textured silicone teething rings: These can provide temporary relief by numbing the gums.
- Gum massaging: Gently rubbing your baby's gums with a clean finger can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Cool foods: Give your baby cool foods (such as yogurt or applesauce) to soothe their sore gums.
- Distraction: Try activities that can distract your baby from their teething discomfort, such as playing games or reading stories.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Speak to your pediatrician if your baby is experiencing significant pain or discomfort due to teething. They can provide additional advice and may recommend a child-appropriate over-the-counter pain reliever.
