Teething Toys for Toddlers: When & What to Use

As a caretaker of a toddler, it is important to understand the teething process and how to help your child through it. One effective way to provide relief during teething is through the use of teething toys, also known as teethers. In this article, we will discuss when to use these tools, what materials to use and avoid, and what to expect during teething. 

Teething can be a difficult time for both toddlers and their caretakers. Teething toys provide an effective way to help soothe the discomfort associated with the teething process. Treehouse Dentalcare is here to help you make the best possible decisions for your child’s oral health. Keep reading and all your questions will be answered!

When to Use Teething Tools

Teething typically occurs in toddlers between 4 and 24 months. Signs and symptoms of teething include drooling, irritability, and gum sensitivity. You might notice lethargy in your toddler or morning difficulties.

Teething is not a gentle or pleasant experience. And as parents, you have a few options to help your child relieve their discomfort. Teethers provide relief by giving toddlers something safe to chew on, helping to alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.

What Teething Toys to Use

There are several types of teething toys available, including rubber or silicone teethers, chilled teething rings, and soft, fabric toys. These toys are effective in providing relief during teething because they are soft, pliable, and easy to grip. Rubber and silicone teethers can be chilled in the refrigerator, which provides added relief by numbing the gums. Fabric toys are easy to clean and can be washed in the washing machine.

Recommended Teethers:

1. Rubber or silicone teethers, such as the Nuby Silicone Teethe-eez Teether or the Sophie La Girafe Teether.
2. Chilled teething rings, such as the Munchkin Twisty Figure 8 Teether or the Bright Starts Chill & Teethe Teething Toy.
3. Soft, fabric toys, such as the Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle and Sensory Teether Toy or the Infantino Squeeze and TeeThe Cow.

Pro-parent tip: Make sure to have enough clean teething toys available and wash the dirty ones! A little grime is okay, but a day’s worth of gunk needs a cleaning!

What Teething Toys to Avoid 

It is important to choose safe and appropriate teething toys for toddlers. And unfortunately, there are many unsafe options on the market. Whether it’s the shape or the material, some teething toys are best avoided. These toys pose a choking hazard and can also be harmful if ingested.

Teething Toys to Avoid:

1. Teething necklaces and bracelets, which can pose a choking hazard and should not be worn by children.
2. Anything with small parts or detachable pieces, such as the Oball Rattle, can break off and become a choking hazard.
3. Teethers made of harmful materials such as lead or phthalates can be toxic if ingested. Caretakers should check the labelling of toys before purchasing them to ensure they are made of safe materials.

What to Expect During Teething

The typical timeline for teething in toddlers is between 4 and 24 months of age, with most children getting their first tooth between 6 and 10 months of age. Common symptoms of teething include drooling, irritability, and gum sensitivity. These symptoms can be managed with teething toys, which provide relief by giving toddlers something safe to chew on. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene during the teething process by wiping the gums and teeth with a damp cloth or using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Remember, building strong oral health habits starts early! So get a brushin’ and make this time as fun as possible!

When to Visit the Dentist for Teething

Every child teethes. But not every child experiences teething in the same way. Some children require some extra help to get through this difficult period. If your child is exhibiting more concerning symptoms, give us a call or come visit us in our office!

Severe teething symptoms that may require a visit to the dentist, include:

• High fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C)
• Excessive drooling
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Rash around the mouth or on the body
• Excessive crying or irritability
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Trouble sleeping
• Unusual bad breath

If normal teething solutions such as teethers, gentle gum massages, or over-the-counter pain relievers do not provide relief for the child, then it’s time to contact Treehouse Dentalcare. A pediatric dentist can provide safe and effective solutions for severe teething symptoms. After all, it’s our mission to make dental care as accessible as possible! And we do that by helping parents manage their child’s discomfort with professionalism and compassion.

If you and your child are currently going through a difficult teething period, don’t hesitate to call us at 1-833-993-6287. Our team at Treehouse Dentalcare is here to help and reassure you with specialized techniques, tools, and appointments.

Discover More Dental Tips with Treehouse Dentalcare

Teething toys provide an effective way to help soothe the discomfort during the teething process. In this article, we’ve covered materials and specific toys to use and avoid. Now, you’re prepared to make the best possible decisions for your child’s oral health!

It really is important to choose safe and appropriate teething toys for your child and to maintain good oral hygiene during the teething process. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s teething process, please contact Treehouse Dentalcare to schedule an appointment.