While sitting down today trying to decide on an interesting and entertaining topic to write about, I am completely distracted by the multiple snot smears on my pants and the dampness around my collar from one of my twins using my shirt to soothe his sore gums. I am in the middle of dealing with teething times two! And from what I’ve read, it can start anywhere from four months through toddlerhood for all teeth to poke their way through.
It’s amazing how all kids can be so different. My twins are now ten months old. My daughter has eight teeth; the only signs they were coming were a little extra drool and a runny nose. My son, who now has four teeth, got two each time! With both sets of teeth came ear infections and many sleepless nights.
I have discovered a few simple tricks that have helped ease his discomfort and manage the mess of teething.
Teething Rings and Toys
Anything that can be chewed makes my babies happy, especially when it’s ice cold. My son starts to shake his head back and forth when his gums are irritated. Chomping down on a hard cold toy can always bring back a smile. I love the Nuby Ice Gel Teether because they have a soft removable cover so that your little one’s hands don’t freeze. A frozen washcloth also does the trick.
Frozen Foods
Not only do teething babies love to chew, but they also love to eat! I have found that sticking a banana or even a bagel in the freezer allows for fun and enjoyment. Since both of my babies have top and bottom teeth, I must watch closely since they can bite off small pieces.
Tissues and Snot Suckers
In addition to teething, the current weather we are experiencing has caused all three of my children to have leaky noses. I have boxes of tissues placed strategically around my house because my clothing becomes the next best thing if I’m not quick enough. To avoid all of my kids looking like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, I’ve discovered Boogie Wipes. These soft, scented wipes are made with saline to dissolve mucus making the job a lot easier. And when a tissue or wipe doesn’t do the trick, it’s always helpful to suck all the mucus out with a simple syringe (I have several I took with me from the hospital), or a few of my friends swear by the NoseFrieda.
Bibs
My first time as a mom, I think I only used bibs when my son was enjoying a meal. Now my twins live in bibs due to the constant drool…and bibs also make a great alternative wipe! Bibs have saved me from multiple outfit changes throughout the day due to drool-soaked shirts.
Elevate the Crib Mattress
Teething may cause congestion, making it difficult for a baby to breathe easily, leading to disrupted sleep. I have found that elevating one side of the crib mattress has helped my son sleep better. I propped up the mattress by placing rolled-up bath towels underneath.
Thermometer and Tylenol
Sadly teething has caused so much pain, making it difficult for my son to sleep through the night on several occasions. Whenever he wakes up screaming, I first do a quick sniff to ensure it’s not a diaper issue and then check if he has a temperature. Often, teething is accompanied by an ear infection in our house, so we rely on Tylenol to get through the night. As soon as the clock strikes 8:30 a.m., a phone call is placed to our pediatrician.
