Teething Troubles? Here’s How to Help Your Baby Feel Better

If your little one is fussier than usual, gnawing on anything they can get their hands on, and drooling like a tiny fountain—teething might be the culprit. And let’s be real: teething can be just as tough on parents as it is on babies.

The clinginess, the food refusals, and those dreaded sleepless nights? It’s a lot. Teething is a normal part of your baby’s development, but that doesn’t make it any easier when you’re in the thick of it.

The good news? There are simple, natural ways to help soothe your baby’s sore gums—and hopefully give you both a little relief.

Signs Your Baby Might Be Teething

Every baby is different, but here are a few common signs that teething could be starting:

• Drooling (and lots of it!)

• Slight swelling & Redness on the gums

• Increased chewing or gnawing on fingers, toys, or pretty much anything

• Irritability or fussiness

• Trouble sleeping

• A slight rise in temperature of less than 38°C

Keep in mind, teething usually starts around 4 to 7 months of age, but it can start earlier or later.

4 Tips to Soothe Teething Gums

When those first teeth start pushing through, your baby’s gums can feel sore and swollen—and it’s tough watching them struggle. Thankfully, there are a few simple, natural ways to help ease the discomfort.

One soothing option is frozen breastmilk. If you’re breastfeeding, try freezing breastmilk in an ice cube tray and letting your baby suck on it using either a mesh feeder or silicone feeder/pacifier. Or you can also freeze it upside down in a baby bottle for an easy grip!  The cold helps numb sore gums, while the familiar taste can be extra comforting.

Another unexpected remedy? A chilled green onion. It might sound unusual, but this old-fashioned trick is beloved in many East Asian households. Simply wash and refrigerate a bigger stalk of green onion in the fridge (not a freezer), then offer the cool, white end for your baby to gnaw on under close supervision. Green onions have potential analgesic effects due to their natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties! 

A cold, wet washcloth is another easy favorite. Soak a clean washcloth in water (breastmilk works too!), pop it in the fridge for a bit, and let your baby chew on it. You can tie a small knot or fold it up to help hold the cold longer! The cool texture helps reduce swelling and discomfort. 

And finally, don’t underestimate the power of touch. A gentle cheek or jaw massage using clean fingers can help relieve tension and boost circulation in those sore areas. Use your index & middle fingers to gently massage the soft spots on each cheek where you feel a little dip. Make small circles with your fingers in either direction. Massage the area in front of the ears and along the jawline to relax muscles. Pay attention to your baby's cues and adjust the pressure or duration as needed. 


Teething might be a bumpy ride, but with a little patience and a few tried-and-true tricks, you and your baby can navigate it together. Remember, this phase won’t last forever—even if it feels endless in the moment. Trust your instincts, lean on your support system, and don’t forget to take care of yourself, too. You’ve got this. And before you know it, that gummy grin will be showing off some adorable new pearly whites.