During the first year of their lives, children must undergo teething, in which their first set of teeth begins emerging from beneath their gums. This process, although something that everyone must endure, usually isn’t very pleasant, and many infants struggle to cope with the associated discomfort. But did you know that a teething ring can be both a useful and safe solution for addressing this discomfort? Here’s more from your pediatric dentist about these unique teething toys and a few tips for using them properly.
A Closer Look at the Teething Process
Most often, teething occurs between 4 to 7 months of age but can also begin sooner or continue later. It’s known as being very uncomfortable for the majority of infants, and some of the most common symptoms that manifest include things like swollen or tender gums, irritability, drooling, refusal of food, insomnia, and the urge to bite hard objects.
How Can Teething Rings Help?
Teething rings are a special type of teething toy that typically comes in a ring shape, which is easy for young hands to firmly grasp. They’re made from a variety of safe materials including rubber, soft plastic, silicone, and wood. They assist children by giving them something appropriate to bite during teething, which provides soothing counterpressure to sore gums. They also distract your child from most of their pain!
Tips for Using Teething Rings
Even though the vast majority of dental professionals agree that teething rings are safe for infants to use, there are still a few things you should take into account. Consider the following tips to ensure that your little one is using their teething ring correctly:
- Only give your child teething rings made from safe materials like silicone, rubber, or soft plastic. Don’t give them a teething ring with liquid inside or with small parts attached, as these can pose a choking hazard.
- Give your child a chilled teething ring; rather than putting it in the freezer (which will make it too hard), pop it in the refrigerator for half an hour. The cool temperature will provide additional relief.
- Always monitor your child when they’re using their teething ring and be sure to never fasten the ring around their neck to keep it in place, as this is also a choking hazard.
- Keep your child’s teething toys sanitary by using a clean cloth or soaking them in warm soapy water before drying them.
- Never allow your child to use a teething ring that was previously used by another child and replace old teething toys as needed.
If your little one is enduring the teething process and dealing with discomfort that’s tugging at your heartstrings, you can rest assured that teething rings are both a safe and reliable solution!
About the Practice
The team at Sprout Dentistry for Kids is thrilled to serve the dental needs of families in the Allen, TX community. We’re excited to offer a wide range of services meant to help your little one’s budding smile achieve optimal and lasting oral health. If you have any questions about the blog, or you’d like to schedule a visit for your loved one, feel free to contact us through our website or over the phone for further information. Telephone: (469) 663-0098.