Hamilton Parents’ Guide to Teething Relief: Excel Dental Recommends Chilled Teething Rings, Gentle Gum Massage, and Avoiding Numbing Gels with Unsafe Ingredients
Hamilton parents ask me all the time what actually helps when their little one is teething. At my office, Excel Dental at 49 East Avenue South in Hamilton, I routinely recommend chilled teething rings, gentle gum massage, and steering clear of numbing gels that contain unsafe ingredients like benzocaine. Those three steps are safe, practical, and easy to use at home while you watch for any signs that need a clinician’s attention.
Why teething hurts
Teething is a natural process when an infant’s primary teeth push through the gums. The pressure and inflammation at the eruption sites cause the familiar drooling, irritability, and local sensitivity that parents notice. It can look dramatic, but most of the time it is a short-lived phase that responds to simple comfort measures.
In clinic I explain that discomfort is usually localized to the gums and does not mean your child has an infection. If symptoms go beyond fussiness and localized redness, such as persistent high fever or feeding refusal, then we treat that as a different problem and investigate further.
Chilled teething rings and safe cold options
Chilled teething rings are one of the safest tools for immediate relief. Choose silicone or rubber rings designed for infants and refrigerate them for a short time rather than freezing. A frozen item can become too hard and might hurt delicate gums or become a choking hazard if it breaks.
Cold washcloths, a chilled carrot for older babies who can handle solid foods safely, or refrigerated teethers shaped for tiny hands work well too. Always supervise a baby using any teether and check items regularly for wear and tear.
Gentle gum massage and other hands-on techniques
Using a clean finger to massage your baby’s gums is simple and effective. I encourage parents to wash their hands and apply firm but gentle circular pressure to the sore areas for a minute or two. The pressure helps counteract the eruption force and often gives immediate relief.
You can combine massage with a chilled teething ring or quiet cuddle time. Skin-to-skin contact, rocking, and distraction with soothing voices or soft music are low-risk ways to comfort a teething child without medication.
Numbing gels and ingredients to avoid
Topical numbing gels that contain benzocaine can pose serious risks for infants and young children. Health Canada and other authorities have warned about benzocaine because it can cause methemoglobinemia, a rare but life threatening condition that reduces oxygen delivery to tissues. Avoid any over-the-counter products that list benzocaine or similar potent local anesthetics for babies.
Some parents ask about prescription numbing agents. Those are rarely needed for routine teething and are used only in specific clinical situations under a doctor’s supervision. When in doubt, check the ingredient list and consult your pediatrician or our dental team before applying any topical numbing product.
When to call your dentist or pediatrician
Call us at Excel Dental or your pediatrician if your child has a persistent fever over 38.5 Celsius, severe diarrhea, a rash that concerns you, breathing difficulty, refusal to eat or drink for more than a few hours, or any bleeding that does not stop. Those symptoms are not typical of teething and need prompt assessment.
If you have any questions about teething-related injuries in the mouth, unusual swelling, or a tooth that looks out of alignment after an injury, bring your child in for an exam. My team and I are happy to look at concerns and recommend next steps.
Practical tips for Hamilton parents
Keep a small kit handy with chilled teethers, a clean washcloth, and a soft baby toothbrush for emerging teeth. When teeth break through, start gently wiping the gums and tooth surfaces to reduce bacteria and establish good oral habits early. If you live near downtown Hamilton, our office on East Avenue South is easy to reach and we welcome teething questions anytime.
If you use fever reducers, follow dosing guidance from your pediatrician or the product instructions. Never give aspirin to children under 18. For immediate clinic advice, call our office and we can help you decide if an in-person visit is necessary.
FAQ
My baby won’t stop crying. Is it always teething? Most crying is caused by something uncomfortable, and teething is one possibility. Look for localized gum swelling and drooling. If crying is accompanied by high fever, vomiting, or a change in behavior, call your pediatrician or bring your child in for evaluation.
Can I freeze a teething ring to make it colder? I do not recommend freezing teething rings. Freezing can make them too hard and increase the chance of injury. Refrigerate them for a short time to get a pleasantly cool effect.
Are teething necklaces safe? I advise against teething necklaces. They pose strangulation and choking risks. Use safe, approved teethers that are sized so they cannot fit entirely in your baby’s mouth and always supervise.
Is it okay to give acetaminophen for teething pain? Acetaminophen can be used for significant discomfort, but only at the proper dose and timing for your child’s weight and age. Check with your pediatrician or pharmacist to confirm dosing before giving any medication.
What ingredients in gels should I avoid? Avoid gels with benzocaine and other strong topical anesthetics unless specifically prescribed and monitored by a clinician. Health Canada has safety advisories on these products for young children.
How do I clean teethers and toys? Wash teethers daily with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Many silicone teethers are dishwasher safe top-rack. Replace any teether that shows signs of damage.
When should my baby see a dentist for the first time? The Canadian Dental Association recommends a dental visit within six months of the first tooth or by the first birthday. Early visits let us check for any concerns, answer teething questions, and coach you on oral care.
Can teething cause fever? Mild temperature increases are often reported, but true high fever usually has another cause. If your baby has a fever above 38.5 Celsius, seek medical advice.
Are homeopathic teething tablets safe? Some homeopathic teething tablets have been subject to safety reviews and recalls. Always check current Health Canada advisories and consult your pediatrician before using such products.
What if my child is gagging on a teether? Stop using that particular item and try a different shape or size. Never force a teether into your child’s mouth and supervise closely to prevent gagging or choking.
How can I help at night? A chilled teether before bed, a brief gum massage, and calming routines can help. If your child has been prescribed a pain reliever for nighttime discomfort, follow dosing instructions closely.
Does breastfeeding help with teething pain? Breastfeeding can be soothing for many infants. Feeding provides comfort and closeness that helps with general distress, although some babies may bite briefly during teething.
More Information
For authoritative guidance, see the Ontario Dental Association at https://www.oda.ca and the Canadian Dental Association at https://www.cda-adc.ca for practical oral health advice and early childhood dental care recommendations. Health Canada’s advisories at https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada.html are helpful for up-to-date safety information about medications and topical products for children.
If you’d like personalized advice or an exam, call our office at 905-529-2164 and we’ll be glad to help.
