Are Natural Teething Tablets for Babies Better Than Over-the-Counter Ones? What Works Best for Babies That Are Teething?

The Big Question: When your baby starts teething, the main concern is whether they can bite off pieces of items that might be choking hazards. Another important consideration is whether the teething remedy is natural or store-bought, as this can affect safety and effectiveness.

Effective Teething Remedies: Natural vs. Commercial Options

I have used Hyland's teething tablets on my babies, but I found that frozen teething rings and, as they got older, frozen peas or even a frozen ice cube wrapped in a clean cloth provided the most relief. The frozen peas not only soothe the gums but also get some veggies into a picky toddler—a win-win situation!

A juice popsicle can work too, but be mindful that it is mostly sugar, and limiting added sugars is a good idea. For those looking for a veggie-packed treat, veggie pops could be the answer, but they aren't commonly available yet.

Home Remedies for Teething

Given the limited availability of frozen fruits and veggies, you could try making your own puree pops. Just ensure that the ingredients are safe and appropriate for your baby, as most babies start on solid foods around 6 months of age.

Safe and Effective Teething Practices

Some of my experiences with teething include 1-year-old 2 and 3-year-old twins who enjoyed gumming items like cheese ravioli, albeit only towards nine months, after they were declared fine for dairy.

I discontinued using teething tablets when my eldest, at about 3 years old, ate an entire bottle, and I panicked. Poison Control was a big help, but the experience left me questioning the balance of relief versus risk. It’s a decision best made after weighing the pros and cons, but it’s important to prioritize safety during this time.

Key Takeaways

1. **Supervision is Key**: Always supervise your baby when using any teething remedy, especially items that could be choking hazards like frozen peas or foods.

2. **Home Remedies Can Be Effective**: Frozen teething rings, frozen ice cubes, and even homemade puree pops can effectively soothe teething discomfort.

3. **Consult Professionals**: If you have concerns about the safety of teething remedies, consult a pediatrician or consultant for advice.