Even though your child is the one physically going through it, the teething process can be an absolute nightmare for both babies and parents. We get it — it’s hard to see that your child is angry and in pain — not to mention the fact that they’re also not being quiet about it. You’ll pretty much try anything to help ease their pain, but how do you know what’s safe?
With so many baby teethers on the market, many of which have been recently recalled, it’s hard to keep track of what parents should be aware of when trying to soothe their babies. But don’t worry — our list of the best and safest baby teethers is here to help.
WHAT TO CONSIDER
To find out what parents should consider when finding the best baby teethers, we spoke to Dr. Jonathan L. Wong, D.M.D., for some pointers. First and foremost, he wants you to know that teething is a marathon, not a sprint. After all, once babies begin teething around 5 or 6 months old, they’ll get about a tooth per month until all 20 baby teeth have made their way through the gums. Timing-wise, Wong says that “Teething for each tooth lasts an average of 8 days. Usually, 4 days before the tooth breaks through the gums (some say colloquially ‘the tooth is cut’) and for about 4 days after.”
Taking advice straight from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Wong says you should look for a couple of key factors when shopping for a baby teether or toy. He advises that your baby teether “should be large enough to not be a choking risk, hygienic, and the paint or color should be lead-free.” The ability to get cold is another helpful feature to look for, and just like car seats to strollers, choosing a baby teether that’s washable is critical.
And those amber teething necklaces? Toss them immediately. Wong tells us he’s not a fan of teething rings that go around a child’s neck, noting that “several children die each year from strangulation, so they’re a big no for me. I also do not like beaded chew toys, as the beads can break free and cause aspiration or choking.”
Pick up one of these baby teethers that will ease your child’s pain safely and gently, one tooth at a time.
From the moment your little one discovers their hands, they become instant chew toys.
While keeping your baby’s hands out of their mouth is nearly impossible, the Itzy Ritzy Silicone Teething Mitt is the perfect chewing buffer. The textured silicon top gently massages and soothes your tot’s sore gums while the crinkly sound keeps their sense stimulated. The patterns are almost as cute as your baby!
Best of all, the whole dang thing is washable.
Come close so we can let you in on a little secret: While your baby is chewing on what he thinks is just another toy, the small silicone bristles are cleaning his teeth at the same time.
While the soft bristles clean the teeth that have already popped through the gums, the same bristles ease the irritation and itch in places where teeth are still on their way. Just make sure you’re cleansing and drying it thoroughly between uses, notes Wong.