Here you will find helpful tips and tricks to help your baby when they start teething
Teething
All babies are different, most will start teething around 6 months, but can begin earlier at 4 months old. Teething is when the first teeth begin to push through the gums, this can cause gums to be tender and painful, however there are a few things that you can try to help relieve this discomfort.
- teething rings, these can be cooled first in the fridge, they give your baby something to chew on and can distract them from discomfort.
- vegetable sticks, helps sooth gums and they are a good snack.
- teething gel, speak to your pharmacist first, as they contain mild local anaesthetic.
- toys and play, spending time with your baby, playing and talking to them, can help to distract them from their discomfort.
Find out more about when babies start teething at Baby teething symptoms (NHS)
This teething chart is a guide for approximately when your baby's teeth will appear
Download Baby teething chart(NHS)
The National Childbirth Trust have some useful teething information including, signs to look for, easing the pain and handy hints on brushing
Visit: Teething in babies and young children (National Childbirth Trust).
NHS Dental Care
NHS dental care for children is FREE.
Looking after your baby's teeth
Find out how to brush your child's teeth, with Health visitor Penny Lazell. She explains how you should brush your child's teeth and the importance of getting into a routine of regular brushing, in this 2-minute YouTube video
Watch the video on YouTube, How do I brush my child's teeth? (6 months to 7 years) (NHS).
Find more NHS guidance on children's toothcare at Children's teeth (NHS).
Find leaflets with tips and advice on brushing your child's teeth, including supporting children with SEND at Oral Health Leaflets (Community Dental Services).
Protecting Against Tooth Decay
The Infant and Toddler Forum have produced a guide on protecting toddlers from tooth decay.
Download, Protecting toddlers from tooth decay, Guidance & Tips for Parents [PDF] (Little people's plate).
Get into a bedtime teeth brushing routine with Brush, Book and Bed (Health for Under5's).