Teething is one of the most challenging milestones for both babies and parents. It can cause discomfort, irritability, and sleepless nights for infants, leaving parents searching for ways to ease their little one’s pain. One common product parents turn to during this time is teething tablets. But what exactly do teething tablets do, and are they a safe and effective way to soothe your baby’s teething troubles?
In this article, we’ll explore what teething tablets are, how they work, and the potential benefits and risks of using them.
What Are Teething Tablets?
Teething tablets are small, chewable tablets or granules that are typically made from a combination of natural ingredients. They are designed to be dissolved in the baby’s mouth, often under the tongue or inside the cheek. The tablets claim to help ease the pain and discomfort associated with teething by providing relief from the soreness in the gums.
Teething tablets are available in many over-the-counter brands and often come in homeopathic formulations. These homeopathic remedies may include ingredients like chamomilla (chamomile), belladonna, and other natural substances. Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine based on the principle that “like cures like,” where very small amounts of a substance are used to treat specific symptoms.
While teething tablets are often marketed as a natural way to ease teething pain, they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way as conventional medications. This means that parents must exercise caution and make informed decisions when choosing to use them.
How Do Teething Tablets Work?
The exact mechanism of action of teething tablets depends on the ingredients used in the formulation. Homeopathic remedies, in particular, are thought to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. For example, chamomilla is known for its calming properties and may help reduce irritability, while belladonna is believed to relieve inflammation.
In general, teething tablets are designed to provide relief in several ways:
Pain relief: Many teething tablets contain ingredients that are thought to numb the gums or reduce inflammation, providing temporary relief from the discomfort of teething.
Calming effects: Some ingredients in teething tablets, like chamomile, have natural calming properties that can help soothe a fussy baby, making them less likely to be irritated by teething pain.
Reduction of swelling: Certain herbs and homeopathic substances may help reduce swelling in the gums, allowing the teeth to break through more easily.
Teething tablets are usually taken by dissolving the tablet in the mouth, allowing it to dissolve quickly and begin working. Since they are generally formulated with natural ingredients, many parents feel comfortable using them as a gentler alternative to other pain-relief options, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Benefits of Teething Tablets
Teething tablets have become a popular choice for parents seeking relief for their babies. Here are some potential benefits of using them:
1. Natural Ingredients
Many teething tablets contain natural ingredients like chamomilla, belladonna, and calcarea phosphorica, which are commonly used in homeopathic remedies. Parents who prefer to use natural products may feel more comfortable giving these tablets to their babies rather than opting for over-the-counter medications that may contain artificial additives or chemicals.
2. Ease of Use
Teething tablets are often convenient to administer. The small, chewable tablets dissolve quickly in the mouth, making them easy for babies to consume. Some products also come in the form of dissolvable granules, which may be easier for younger infants who have trouble chewing or swallowing tablets.
3. Fewer Side Effects
Compared to pharmaceutical pain relievers, teething tablets are often marketed as having fewer side effects. They are generally considered safe for short-term use. Since they contain natural ingredients, they are less likely to cause stomach upset or other common side effects associated with stronger pain medications.
4. Multi-Symptom Relief
Teething can cause a variety of symptoms beyond just sore gums, including irritability, drooling, and trouble sleeping. Many teething tablets are formulated to address multiple symptoms at once, providing relief from both physical discomfort and emotional distress.
Risks and Concerns of Teething Tablets
While teething tablets offer some potential benefits, there are also risks and concerns that parents should be aware of before using them. The safety and effectiveness of teething tablets can vary depending on the brand, ingredients, and individual baby’s response.
1. Lack of Regulation
One of the main concerns with teething tablets is that they are not regulated by the FDA as rigorously as prescription or over-the-counter medications. This means there may be inconsistencies in quality, dosage, and safety among different brands. The lack of regulation also makes it difficult for parents to know exactly what is in the product and whether it is safe for their child.
2. Potential Toxicity of Belladonna
One of the ingredients commonly found in teething tablets is belladonna, a plant known for its toxic properties. In small doses, belladonna may have therapeutic effects, but in larger amounts, it can be dangerous, potentially causing symptoms like dry mouth, dilated pupils, and difficulty swallowing. There have been concerns about the safety of belladonna in teething tablets, particularly in babies, who are more vulnerable to its effects.
Some brands of teething tablets have been recalled in the past due to concerns over belladonna toxicity. In 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the potential risks of belladonna-containing teething tablets, prompting several manufacturers to revise their formulations or remove the ingredient entirely.
3. Unproven Effectiveness
While some parents report positive results from using teething tablets, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. Homeopathic treatments, in general, are often criticized for lacking rigorous scientific backing. This means that the claims made by manufacturers of teething tablets may not be substantiated by clinical trials or research studies.
4. Potential for Choking
As with any small product, there is a risk of choking if the tablet is not properly dissolved or if the child swallows it whole. It’s important to supervise your baby while using teething tablets and ensure that the tablet dissolves fully before swallowing.
Alternatives to Teething Tablets
If you are concerned about the safety or effectiveness of teething tablets, there are several alternative methods for managing teething pain. These options may be more familiar to parents and have a more established safety record.
Teething Rings and Toys: Rubber or silicone teething rings can be chilled in the refrigerator and offered to babies to chew on. The cold can help numb the gums and reduce inflammation.
Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be given in appropriate doses to help reduce pain and inflammation during teething. Always consult a pediatrician before using any medication.
Cold Washcloth: A cold, damp washcloth can be soothing for babies to chew on. The cold temperature may help numb the gums, while the texture provides some relief.
Gum Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can also provide some relief. The pressure can help alleviate discomfort and may provide temporary relief from sore gums.
Conclusion
Teething tablets can offer some relief to babies who are struggling with the discomfort of teething, especially for parents who prefer natural remedies. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to use these products with caution. Always check the ingredients and look for products that have been tested for safety. In cases where there is doubt, or if the baby shows signs of severe pain, it’s best to consult a pediatrician for guidance on how to manage teething symptoms.
Ultimately, whether you choose teething tablets or another method, the goal is to ensure your baby is as comfortable as possible during this challenging phase.
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