Teething

Teething is an exciting time for parents as it is a physical sign that their baby is growing older and nothing melts the heart more than a smile from your loved one with little teeth showing! The appearance of teeth also means your little one can start eating more solid foods which accelerates their development.

But teething can also be a time of stress for baby, as this period is often accompanied by sore or tender gums that may appear red or swollen. Parents can feel frustrated as they try to relieve their baby's discomfort. Different things you can try are:

• A cold teething ring
• Gently rubbing the gums with a finger or the back of a cold spoon
• Ask your pharmacist for a pain reliever to suit your baby. Always seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

Once your baby has teeth, it's time to start brushing. Start by using a very soft toothbrush with water only. At this stage, it's important to establish a brushing routine that your baby enjoys. Find out more about caring for your child's teeth here.