Ah, teething. One of the most dreaded words in the parenting dictionary. It’s a process that babies and toddlers have to go through, but one that parents certainly don’t look forward to.
From swollen gums, to sleepless nights, teething can be a difficult time for everyone involved. But what if there was a way to ease the pain?
What if we told you there is such a thing as teething gel? Let’s dive in and find out just what this stuff is and if it’s something you should use on your baby.
What is Teething Gel?
Teething gel is a topical medication used to soothe babies during their teething period. It usually contains lidocaine or benzocaine which are two numbing agents used to relieve pain and inflammation.
You can find teething gel in most pharmacies, but make sure to read the label before using it since some preparations may contain other ingredients such as sugar or coloring agents.
Is Teething Gel Safe?
Most experts agree that teething gel is safe when used as directed on babies over 2 months old. Make sure not to exceed the recommended dose—which should be clearly stated on the packaging—and always follow your doctor’s instructions for using any medications with your baby.
Additionally, make sure to closely monitor your baby while they are using it and discontinue use immediately if any allergic reactions occur.
Is Teething Gel Beneficial?
The jury is still out on this one! While some experts swear by teething gel as an effective way of relieving pain, others say that its effects are short-lived and that it may cause more harm than good in some cases due to its potential side effects (e.g., numbness of mouth/throat).
Ultimately it comes down to personal preference; talk with your pediatrician about your options before making any decisions.
The Pros of Teething Gels
Teething gels can provide temporary relief from soreness and inflammation in your baby’s mouth. Generally, these gels contain either a local anesthetic or an antiseptic to help reduce discomfort and swelling. They are also easy to apply, as you simply rub a small amount onto your baby’s gum line.
The Cons of Teething Gels
Some doctors and pediatricians are skeptical about the effectiveness of teething gels, as research has yet to prove conclusively that they do indeed provide any real benefit to babies.
Furthermore, there is evidence that suggests that some of the ingredients found in these gels may actually damage your baby’s teeth if used too frequently or over a long period of time.
Finally, it is important to note that many teething gels contain sugar, which can lead to tooth decay if left on your baby’s teeth for too long.
When shopping for a teething gel, its important to bear the above in mind as you'll be putting it directly into baby's mouth! Check out my blog on the best teething gels here:
Conclusion
As with anything related to our children’s health, it pays off to do our research before making any decisions regarding their care – especially when those decisions involve medication like teething gel does! While this product may provide temporary relief from discomfort caused by teething, always consult with your doctor about what options are best for your little one's situation before using any form of medication on them. We hope this article has been helpful in informing you about all things related to teething gel! Good luck out there!
