The Importance of Teething Toys for Your Baby
Teething is an enervertable milestone in your baby’s development, it can also be a challenging time for both parents and infants. As those tiny teeth begin to emerge, babies often experience discomfort and irritability. This is where teething toys come to the rescue. These toys not only provide relief but also stimulate your child’s senses and promote healthy oral development. Explore the importance of teething toys and the various types available, from first teething mittens, silicone teething rings and educational teething toys.
Why Teething Toys Matter
Teething toys play a crucial role in soothing sore gums during the teething process. Babies instinctively look for something to chew on to alleviate the discomfort caused by the pressure of new teeth pushing through the gums. Here are some key benefits of teething toys:
- Pain Relief: Chewing on teething toys can help massage the gums and provide natural temporary relief from teething pain.
- Sensory Development: Teething toys often come in different textures, shapes, and colors, which can stimulate a baby’s sense of touch and sight.
- Oral Health: Encouraging chewing helps babies develop strong jaw muscles and promotes healthy oral habits.
- Safe Exploration: Safety certified teething toys offer a safe object for babies to explore with their mouths, reducing the risk of choking on unsuitable items.
Different Types of Teething Toys
Teething toys come in a variety of styles, each uniquely designed to meet different needs and preferences. Here are some popular types:
Teething Mittens
Teething mittens are perfect for the early stages of teething. Designed to fit snugly over a baby’s hand, these mittens allow infants to self soothe by chewing on the soft, textured silicone attached to the mitten’s surface. They are ideal for babies who have not yet developed the dexterity to hold traditional teething toys.
Teething Rings
Teething rings are a classic choice that remains popular due to their simple and effective design. Made from all silicone or silicone and beechwood, these rings are easy for little hands to grasp and provide soothing relief to aching gums.
Silicone Jewellery (Previously known as Teething Necklaces)
Teething necklaces are intended to be worn by parents, allowing babies to chew on them while being held. Made from safe, non-toxic silicone, teething necklaces double as a stylish accessory for parents and a convenient teething aid for their little ones.
Silicone Teething Stackers
Silicone teething stacking toys serve a dual purpose as both an educational toy and a teether. Featuring stackable rings of different sizes and colors, these toys help develop hand-eye coordination while providing a safe and soothing teething option.
Understanding Teething Stages
Teething typically begins around four to six months of age, but it can vary from one baby to another. The teething process is generally divided into stages:
- Stage 1 (0-6 months): Babies are born with a full set of 20 primary teeth beneath their gums.
- Stage 2 (6-12 months): The first teeth, usually the bottom front two, start to emerge.
- Stage 3 (12-18 months): Molars begin to appear, which can be particularly painful for babies.
- Stage 4 (18-24 months): Canine teeth start to come through.
- Stage 5 (24-30 months): The final set of molars emerges, completing the set of primary teeth.
Teething is a natural part of your baby’s growth, and while it can be tough, teething toys offer a wonderful way to ease the journey. By choosing the right teething toys, you can help your baby navigate this critical stage with more comfort and joy.