When baby’s first tooth erupts, it is usually enough to trigger a shower of “awws” from admiring family and friends. But before his first set of teeth pop out for the cameras, a baby will first have to go through the pains and discomfort of teething.

Teething could be a stressful time for babies because of the certain soreness they will feel as the teeth begin to push their way through the gums. It could also be stressful for parents, who often find themselves at a loss about what they can do to relieve their baby’s discomfort.

However, managing teething pains is easy if you are aware of some of the techniques that many parents before you have tried on their children. Here are some of them:

Recognize when teething has begun. Your baby will experience a number of changes as teething period sets in. This may include salivation, attempting to bite hard things, refusing the food you give, irritability, constant crying and difficulty sleeping. These are sometimes accompanied by mild diarrhea and fever.

Apply cold and pressure on baby’s gums. Massaging your baby’s gums or letting him chew on firm things like a pacifier or a teething toy may help numb the pain he is feeling. Just make sure to leave these things inside the fridge to cool for some time before giving one to your baby. You can also try giving him a washcloth which has been soaked in water or apple juice, wrung and then frozen stiff. Of course it is important that you choose non-toxic items when buying teething aids for your child. Washing them with safe and natural cleaning solutions like Dish Dazzler Foaming Dish and Bottle Soap from BabyGanics would also help keep them clean and free from toxic residues.

A little help from baby’s doctor. Your pediatrician might also prescribe pain medications and pain gels which can help alleviate the soreness that your baby feels. Remember to never administer any drug unless you are told to by a doctor.

Help your baby get some good night’s sleep. Pain from teething may also prevent your baby from sleeping normally and this could make him restless. Giving him a soothing, warm bath or setting him on his rocking chair may help him doze off. Doing this will help you too because when you know your baby’s finally okay and is tucked in comfortably in his crib, you’ll get to rest well yourself.