Teething Remedies for Babies: Safe Options

A teething baby means a lot of drool, a lot of chewing, and more than a few sleepless nights. At Route 66 Children’s Dentistry in Albuquerque, our kid-focused dentists help new parents sort the remedies that genuinely soothe from the ones to skip. Here’s the safe, effective list.

When Does Teething Start?

Most babies get their first tooth between 6 and 12 months, usually a lower front tooth, though some start earlier or later. Teething can come with fussiness, drooling, gum rubbing, chewing on everything, and disrupted sleep — typically flaring for a few days around each new tooth.

Safe Teething Remedies That Work

• Chilled teething rings — cool (refrigerated, not frozen solid) rubber rings to chew.
• Gum massage — a clean finger rubbed gently on sore gums.
• A cool, damp washcloth — chill it briefly and let baby gnaw.
• Cold foods for older babies eating solids — chilled (not frozen) purees or a mesh feeder with cold fruit.
• Extra comfort — cuddles, distraction, and patience go a long way.

What to Avoid

• Benzocaine teething gels — the FDA warns against them for infants due to a rare but serious blood-oxygen risk.
• Amber teething necklaces — a choking and strangulation hazard with no proven benefit.
• Frozen-solid teethers — too hard and cold; they can bruise tender gums.
• Homeopathic teething tablets — some have contained inconsistent ingredients.

If you’re considering an over-the-counter pain reliever, check with your pediatrician for the right option and dose for your baby’s age.

Caring for That First Tooth

As soon as the first tooth appears, start cleaning it twice a day with a soft infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). Wipe the gums even before teeth arrive. And plan that first dental visit by the first birthday — here’s what to expect.

When to Call Us — or Your Pediatrician

True teething causes only mild symptoms. A high fever, diarrhea, a rash, or a baby who seems genuinely sick is not “just teething” — check with your pediatrician. And if you have questions about that first tooth, our kid-focused team is here to help.

Visit Route 66 Children’s Dentistry in Albuquerque

Our kid-focused dental practice is located on Albuquerque’s Westside, and we make it easy to start your little one’s dental care off right. We welcome children from 9 months through age 18 (special needs to 26) — and we love meeting babies for that very first visit. Contact our office to schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the safest teething remedies for babies?

A chilled (not frozen) teething ring, gentle gum massage with a clean finger, a cool damp washcloth, cold foods for babies on solids, and extra comfort. These soothe without risk.

What teething products should I avoid?

Benzocaine teething gels, amber teething necklaces, frozen-solid teethers, and homeopathic teething tablets. Talk to your pediatrician before using any oral pain reliever.

When do babies start teething?

Most babies get their first tooth between 6 and 12 months, usually a lower front tooth, though earlier or later is also normal.

Is a fever a sign of teething?

Teething may cause a slightly raised temperature but not a true fever. A high fever, diarrhea, or a sick-seeming baby should be checked by a pediatrician — it’s not just teething.

When should my baby first see a dentist?

By the first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth. Early visits help catch issues and build comfort with the dentist.