Reducing Biting in Teething Babies

Topic Overview

Some babies bite during teething, because they feel discomfort or pain. The most common symptoms of teething include:

• Swelling, tenderness, or discomfort in the gums at the site of the erupting tooth.
• Increased saliva, which can cause drooling. Drooling may cause a rash to develop on the chin, face, or chest.
• Refusing to eat and drink because of mouth soreness.
• Irritability and trouble sleeping because of the discomfort.

Teething rings or teethers can help ease your baby's discomfort from teething. Many items are available and clearly marked for this purpose. Do not use fluid-filled teethers. Make sure that items will not pose a choking hazard and are safe to put in a baby's mouth.

Biting or chewing on a clean, frozen washcloth can also help relieve teething pain.