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Summary: Wood teething toys are growing in popularity. As we become more aware
of the effects our purchases have on the environment, wood teething
toys made from sustainable wood sources become a more attractive
option.
Wood teething toys are growing in popularity. As we become more aware of the effects our purchases have on the environment, wood teething toys made from sustainable wood sources become a more attractive option. Wood teething toys come in all shapes, sizes, and colors; there are styles available that are sure to please any teething child. Wood provides many benefits over other materials. Wood is naturally anti-bacterial, non-allergenic, and non-toxic. Unlike plastic teething toys, wood teething toys are free from phthalates and other harmful chemicals. Wood teething toys are usually finished with either food-grade beeswax or organic plant-based oil. The most common woods used to create wooden teething toys are: maple, cherry, walnut, and beech. Wooden teething toys are a child-safe and Earth-friendly option.
Another popular option for teething toys is wood combined with organic cotton. This Earth-friendly option includes beautiful designs, such as Waldorf-inspired dolls, flowers, plants, stars, and other creative designs. Organic rattle teething toys are made with rice or other material inside to provide a nice rattle sound effect when a child shakes the toy. Organic teething toys are treated with natural, safe finishes that are environmentally sustainable.
Wood teething toys provide comfort for a baby’s tender gums. Chewing, gnawing, and biting help to ease the pain caused by erupting teeth. When teething pain becomes especially bad, teething toys alone do not provide enough relief. You might consider trying other teething home remedies in addition to a wooden teething toy.
Teething Home Remedies
A baby’s gums become swollen, tender, and sore as teeth emerge. To ease the pain of swollen gums, try gently massaging her gums with a clean finger. The gentle counter-pressure can temporarily relieve the pain created by erupting teeth. Olive oil works well for teething pain. Gently rub a tiny amount on her gums to provide instant relief. Ginger root provides pain relief as well. Rub a small piece of ginger root directly on her sore gums. Don’t have any ginger handy? Try vanilla extract used in the same fashion. Only use pure vanilla extract, as imitations may be harmful to a child. Clove oil can also be used, but it is very potent. Clove oil must be mixed with edible oil before application the affected area.
Something Cool to Ease the Burn
A teething child will enjoy chewing on something cool. The coolness can provide instant relief to the burning pain of sore gums. Never put ice directly on a child’s gums or skin; the freezing temperature can cause damage to a baby’s sensitive tissue. Instead, try chilling a wet washcloth in the freezer for a few minutes. You can soak the washcloth in water or chamomile tea before chilling it in the freezer. Chamomile tea has a calming effect on children (and adults) making it a great option for a teething child. A cold spoon works well too. Frozen foods make great teething options. Try a frozen waffle, bagel, banana, or carrot. However, you must keep a close eye on a baby using frozen food for a teething toy. Frozen food could potentially break into smaller pieces, which could cause choking in a small child. Cool drinks can soothe sore gums; baby-friendly options include: water, juice, juice mixed with chamomile tea, or milk. Choose an age appropriate drink. Homemade or store-bought teething biscuits are a nice option as well. Water or gel-filled teething toys can be used, but they should not be frozen. Frozen teething toys could crack and leak making them unsafe for children.
Store Bought Teething Pain Remedies
Many over the counter pain medications are available for teething babies. Teething pain relievers often have a small dose of acetaminophen. Ask the Pharmacist or your health care provider to recommend an appropriate medication for your child. Never use a pain reliever containing aspirin. Aspirin is associated with Reye’s Syndrome – a serious, life-threatening condition.
Additional Teething Tips
Children exhibit several symptoms when the teething process begins. Symptoms may include any of the following:
• Irritability
• Moodiness
• Crying
• Swollen and tender gums
• Loss of appetite
• Problems sleeping
• Biting, chewing, and gnawing everything in sight
• Drooling
Teething children drool frequently. Be sure to wipe your child’s chin often to prevent a rash or irritation from developing on her sensitive skin.
Teething is painful for a young child. Remember to provide lots of love, cuddles, and patience during this difficult time. Sometimes a distraction can take your baby’s mind off of her teething pain. Try taking her on a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood, if the weather allows for a walk outside. Cuddling, singing, and carrying your teething child will enable her to feel safe and happy. This too can take her mind off of the pain.
When Nothing Works
A teething baby that continues to cry uncontrollably may be crying for a reason other than teething. Contact your child’s health care provider if your child continues to cry after trying several home remedies, vomits, experiences a loss of appetite for more than a few days, has flu-like symptoms, or if she has a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher while teething. A loss of appetite for more than a couple days is cause for concern as well. Keep your child well-hydrated, especially when a loss of appetite occurs. Doctors do not consider prolonged loss of appetite, fevers, vomiting, or diarrhea to be associated with the teething process. Any of these symptoms could be a sign of a separate health issue. To be on the safe side, alert your child’s health care provider to any of these changes.
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