Around 700,000 babies start teething each year in the UK and in many cases new parents can get confused by, or miss, some of the early signs of this natural developmental stage. With approximately two thirds of children suffering from problems associated with teething, it’s important that parents learn to spot these symptoms early, to help avoid any unnecessary discomfort or pain for their child and parental distress.

A baby’s first tooth usually cuts through the gums at around six months. However the timing of teething can be very different from one baby to another. There is no need to worry if the first tooth is on its way earlier or later, unless your baby is showing other signs of developmental delay. In that case a qualified healthcare professional should be consulted.

How do I know if my baby is teething?

One of the most common signs that your baby is about to start teething, is their need to chew or gnaw more than usual. Whether it’s their thumb, fist or toys, when your baby starts to chew anything they can get into their mouth, it is one of the most obvious signs they are about to start teething.  Other signs also include painful and swollen gums, red cheeks, nappy rash, dribbling and grumpiness. For more information about spotting the signs of teething, you can read our previous blog.

How can I help my baby?

With many myths and products out there on ways to soothe your baby during teething, the experts at Camilia® have outlined their top tips on how to help your baby through this milestone:

1. Offer a cold teething ring – Giving your baby a chilled, not frozen, teething ring to bite on may help relieve their pain and discomfort. Make sure that the teething ring is made of firm material, as a liquid-filled variety may break under the pressure of a baby’s chewing
2. Rub the baby’s gum – Using a clean finger, moistened gauze pad or damp washcloth, massage your baby’s gums. The pressure can ease the baby’s discomfort
3. Dry the drool – Excessive drooling is part of the teething process. To prevent skin irritation, keep a clean cloth handy to dry the baby’s chin
4. Keep it cool – A cold washcloth or chilled teething ring can be soothing. However, don’t give a baby a frozen teething ring. Contact with extreme cold may be harmful
5. Natural Remedies – New parents could also try a natural medicine. A homeopathic medicine like Camilia® can be used to relieve a baby’s teething pain and other associated minor symptoms such as irritability and swollen gums. Camilia® is practical, hygienic and easy to use as it comes in individual, single dose containers.

For more tips, information and teething advice visit www.camiliateething.co.uk