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Pros and Cons of Teething Toys for Infants

The appearance of a baby’s first tooth is a significant milestone for both parents and the child. However, the eruption process is often preced by discomfort and pain in the tiny gum pads, which can be concerning for parents. The process can become stressful and overwhelming due to constant fussing and crying.

Teething is accompanied by several temporary symptoms that resolve after the tooth erupts in the oral cavity. Teething toys for infants are specially design to relieve discomfort and calm itching gums. While these toys offer significant relief, they also have certain downsides.

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Symptoms Of Teething

Teething is a process of eruption of teeth into the infant’s oral cavity. As part of this process, specific symptoms indicate teeth eruption through the gums. Besides typical fussiness and irritability, common signs and symptoms observed in infants are:

Inflammation and redness on the gums on the site of the tooth eruption.
Disturbed sleep or wakefulness is quite common during this period.
Excessive salivation or drooling is a clear sign of teething.
Infants tend to chew their hands or bite on their fingers at the time of teething, suggesting discomfort. They can also opt for other things to alleviate the pain and itchiness.
Some infants also show bowel issues, such as constipation or diarrhea.
Infants lose their appetite and lean more towards fluid intake.
Your infant might start rubbing the ear on the same side of the tooth eruption.
General irritability is common, followed by fever in some cases.
A circumoral rash or facial flushing can be witness during teething.

Teething Toys for Infants

Teething toys are design specifically to alleviate the symptoms of teething and provide relief to the baby. During the eruption process, babies have the urge to apply pressure to their gums, often putting anything, even possibly hazardous things, in their mouth, which can be dangerous and damaging to the erupting teeth. Teething toys for infants offer a safe alternative, supporting the smooth growth of teeth in the oral cavity.

They are available in different shapes and sizes and made from different materials, such as rubber, silicone, wood, or rubber. They not only help with teething but also improve motor skills and aid in the introduction of solid food to the diet.

Types of Teething Toys for Infants

These are some of the most popular teething toys:

Infant Teething Rings: Teething rings are easy-to-grasp teethers made of silicone. They are available in both solid and liquid filling and can be smooth or studded for added comfort. They exert a safe amount of pressure on the sore gums and are usually kept cool before chewing. The teething rings are available in extensive shapes and sizes for the baby to gnaw. Solid teething rings are better than liquid ones, as they do not pose the risks of leakage.

Teething mitts: These are little gloves or mittens that allow the baby to bite or chew on their hand. Most babies put their hands in their mouths for relief, and these mitts are great for protection.

Pros of Teething Toys for Infants

The following are some advantages of teeth toys:

Pain and Discomfort Relief

The primary issue is pain and discomfort, which leads to ongoing fussiness and irritability in the infant. Teething toys offer a significant benefit in relieving these two symptoms. Cooling teething rings before giving them to the baby can help soothe their gums. This aids in numbing the gums and gives temporary relief.

Aids in the Development of Motor Skills

It enhances tactile sensation and improves motor skills. Teething toys are good exercises for improving hand-eye coordination in babies. They help the baby explore and encourage problem-solving skills along with motor development.

Aid in Oral Development

Chewing and constant nibbling on these toys help strengthen the jaw muscles and allow them to adapt to solid food. The stimulation of the tongue and jaw muscles also supports a child’s development of speech and the ability to chew. Teething toys for infants have a positive impact on the development of oral structures.

Sensory Stimulation

Different shapes, sizes, and textures of these toys also help with the development of sensory development. The babies are mentally stimulate while exploring the new skills and remain engage. This improves tactile, visual, and auditory senses in the babies.

Cons of Teething Toys

Although these toys are much safer and an excellent alternative to other treatment methods, they have certain risks associated with them.

Leakage

Many teething toys are filled with liquid material inside, which is made of different components, including some toxic chemicals. Leakage of such substances poses health risks and can be dangerous for the baby.

Potential Choking Hazard

Small toys, or with detachable parts, possess risks of choking. Pieces from toys can break off and get stuck in the airways, which can be life-threatening. Before choosing a design, parents must be very careful of these parts.

Chemical Exposure

Certain materials used in the fabrication of these toys are not safe for babies. Chemicals such as BPA, phthalates, and PVC are toxic to the developing endocrine system. Parents must choose wisely and opt for BPA-free teethers to prevent health issues.

Hygiene Maintenance

Teething toys accumulate various germs on the surface which are unsanitary for the baby and can lead to various infections, affecting oral tissues and overall health.

Conclusion

The best teething toys for infants are silicone teething rings that are made of soft silicone material. Rubber teethers and wooden teethers made from natural products are also considered safer options, as they are free of chemicals and toxins.

These are safer than other teething toys and are typically recommended by dentists for children.

Apart from the teething toys, other methods are also available for relieving the symptoms and ensuring smooth sailing of events. Visit our specialists at Anoka Dental for a detailed consultation and get expert advice for your baby.

Schedule an appointment with us for the special dental needs of your little one.