Many parents wonder if using a dummy or soother can help alleviate their baby's teething discomfort.
In this post, we'll explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of using dummies to soothe teething pain and offer some alternative comfort measures for you to try.
Spotting teething symptoms
Every baby experiences teething differently, but there are some common signs of teething that parents can watch for.
- Your baby may become fussier or more cranky than usual.
- Swollen gums and your baby may explore their mouth by chewing on toys, their fingers, or other objects.
- Increased drooling as your baby’s body produces more saliva to help soothe their tender teething gums.
It's important to remember that these are just general signs, and each baby's experience may vary.
When does teething start?
Teething usually starts around six months old, but every baby is different. Some babies may start teething earlier or later. The first baby teeth to usually appear are the two front teeth on the bottom, followed by the top front teeth.
Yes, dummies can help soothe your baby when they're teething and can also be a source of comfort. Sucking on a dummy can help ease sore gums and stimulate the growth of baby teeth.
However, it's important to use them in moderation and to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Tips for dummy safety
- Choose orthodontic, BPA-free soothers designed for your child's age.
- Never force your baby to take a dummy.
- Don't attach a neck cord to your baby's dummy.
- Never dip your baby's dummy in food or drink, this can lead to tooth decay.
- Check your baby's soothers regularly for cracks, splits, and holes, and replace their dummies every month or immediately at the first signs of any damage or weakness.
- Clean and sterilise your baby’s dummies regularly.
- Prolonged soother use after the age of 24 months may interfere with dental development. We recommend stopping soother use entirely when your child is older than 36 months.
Choosing the right dummy for your teething baby
When choosing a dummy for your teething baby, consider these factors:
- Being able to attach a soother clip will help stop your baby’s dummy falling on the floor and becoming dirty or getting lost.
- Choose a BPA-free dummy made from soft silicone that won't irritate your baby's gums.
- A symmetrical dummy that always sits the right way up will be easier for your baby to hold comfortably in their mouth.
- Choose a dummy that's the right size for your baby's age to ensure a comfortable fit.
- One-piece dummies are easier to clean. They're also less likely to break or come apart, which means fewer small parts that could be a choking hazard.
Other teething baby remedies
Not all babies will like sucking a dummy, so don't force them to use one. If your baby isn't interested or you prefer not to use a dummy, there are other ways to soothe them when they're teething.
- Cool, textured teethers can help numb their gums
- You can also gently rub their gums with a clean finger to ease the pain
- Cool foods like yoghurt or applesauce can be soothing
- Try playing games or reading stories to distract them
If your baby is in a lot of pain, talk to your GP. They can give you more advice and may suggest a child-friendly pain reliever.
