The first teeth usually emerge around the 6th month, but many babies may show teething symptoms as early as 12 weeks. The months of fist chewing, red bottom, and drooling are eventually replaced by even more unpleasant symptoms, as toddlers may experience fever, pain, 'hunger strike,' and a demand for exclusive breastfeeding. If teething coincides with the initial phase of introducing solid foods, the process of getting acquainted with foods may stall or be interrupted. Don't worry, there's no need to be concerned! The symptoms are usually temporary, and as the tooth breaks through the gum, the little one becomes open to different textures and flavors again.

Pain relief during teething

Among mothers, many magical recipes, miracle trinkets, and sure-fire tips circulate, from amber necklaces (choking hazard!) to herbal balls to consistent use of pain relief, but we suggest something entirely different. If the little one is cranky, if their gums hurt, if they don't feel like eating or playing, use symptomatic treatment!

- Choose a coolable teething ring or teething necklace for them!

- Put a spoon in the fridge and occasionally let the little one chew on it!

- Only use pharmacy products suitable for local anesthesia if absolutely necessary! This way, you can avoid developing a dependency and have somewhere to turn if only heavy artillery can help.

 

What should the baby eat during teething?

It's difficult to accept without worries, but it's completely normal if the little one doesn't want to eat during teething, perhaps only accepting the breast or formula. One reason is that the mother's physical closeness calms the baby, and another is that the silky breast milk does not irritate the gums and surrounding area. If the little one rejects pureed or solid foods, instead of worrying and forcing, it's enough to ensure the daily necessary fluid intake is met.

Some ideas for creative moms to ensure the baby eats during teething:

- If you have extra breast milk available, instead of using a milk storage bag, put it in an ice cream mold this time! You can hand the resulting popsicle or baby-hand-compatible ice cubes to your little one anytime. This way, you can take care of feeding, gum pain relief, and providing tactile stimuli all in one step.

- Use the fridge boldly! Depending on where you are in the weaning process, put vegetable and fruit sticks, apple slices, or even baby biscuits in the fridge. Contrary to misconceptions, these slightly chilled treats do not cause sore throats but help the little one a lot.

- Smoothies and smoothie bowls are the baby's best friends during teething. These colorful, splash-worthy fruity treats pamper the little one's taste buds and gums alike.

- If you have to leave home and would rather avoid the expected mess, try puffed rice or other extruded grains. Homemade baby biscuits or breadsticks are also convenient solutions, but pay special attention to supervising the baby when consuming millet balls. The tiny balls can be stuffed into the mouth simultaneously, increasing the risk of choking and suffocation.

The most important rule of weaning during teething

Teething typically affects not only the little one's eating but also their daily routine. Be as flexible as you can, but it's important that meal times - for both small and large meals - remain where they have been. Even if the baby does not accept the offered colorful, shaped treats or other foods, offer them regularly. Despite the refusal, ensure that the baby receives foods appropriate for the weaning phase in terms of type and texture. This way, the previously established system is not lost, and after the big breakthrough, you can continue from where you left off.