Teething is an agonizing process for a child, and to be fair, it's not exactly pleasant for mom and dad either. While your primary focus is helping your child feel better, there are some teething measures parents take that can turn out to do more harm than good. You must work to soothe your child and help them feel better the correct way.
Numbing Agents
You should never use a numbing agent in a child's mouth. First, some of these products have potentially toxic chemicals in them that can cause adverse health effects for a child. Second, it's too hard to control the dosage of a young child.
There is always the risk that your child will swallow some of the numbing agent. Since the medication is designed to numb whatever body part it comes in contact with, it can also cause numbing in your child's throat, which could cause choking. If you speak with your family dentist, they should be able to prescribe some form of pain relief for your child.
Frozen Rings
When it comes to pain, applying a cold compress is often a go-to solution. So, it's easy to see why some parents might give their child a frozen teething ring to help numb their gums and lessen their discomfort. Yet, it's not a safe idea. The flexible plastic corners and edges of a teething ring become hard and sharp when frozen.
If your child bites down on the ring, it could puncture their gum. An open wound in the mouth will make their pain worse, and increase the risk of infection. Teething rings are designed to provide comfort in their normal state. You can put the ring in the refrigerator if you'd like, but don't freeze it.
Amber Necklaces
Some parents have started to use amber necklaces for teething, in an effort to take a more natural approach. These necklaces look very much like a beaded necklace. However, those in favor of these necklaces state that the amber beds release an element that absorbs into the skin and bloodstream that helps to minimize and block pain.
While the science is still questionable about its effects, the necklaces can easily break, and a child could swallow a bead. Allowing the child to breastfeed or eat a chilled piece of fruit is just as natural, and safer.
A dentist is not just there to help when your child has a full set of teeth. A dentist can help you from day one. If you have any concerns about teething, don't hesitate to contact a dental provider for help. Contact a dentist to learn more.
If you are tired of coming down with dental problems, the problem might not be your toothpaste. Instead, it could be your habits tied to your dental care. Aggressive brushers, people who have a tendency to forget, and even people who are flossing improperly could be left with serious dental issues, which is why it really pays to focus on mastering the small things. From moving forward with a better brushing routine to doing what you can to identify and resolve ongoing decay, making your dental health a priority is instrumental in preventing pain and added budgetary strains. Check out this blog to find out more.