Teething Troubles: Paradise Valley Tips for Soothing Sore Gums (Without Sacrificing Oral Health)

Teething is one of the first major milestones in your baby’s development—and it’s often one of the most uncomfortable, too. As those first tiny teeth push through the gums, your child may experience irritability, drooling, gum swelling, and disrupted sleep.

For parents in Paradise Valley, AZ, it's important to find soothing strategies that not only provide relief but also support early oral health. At Doctor Sugar’s pediatric dental practice, we’re committed to helping families navigate teething with care, comfort, and clarity.

Here are some effective, dentist-approved tips for helping your baby through the teething stage—without compromising their future smile.

1. Use Cold (Not Frozen) Teething Aids

Cold helps reduce inflammation and soothe sore gums. Offer your baby a chilled (but not frozen) teething ring or a clean, damp washcloth that’s been placed in the refrigerator. Frozen items can be too hard and may damage tender gums.

Quick Tip: Always monitor your baby while they’re chewing on any teething item to avoid choking hazards.

2. Massage the Gums Gently

Using a clean finger, gently rub your baby's gums in small circular motions. This pressure can help relieve discomfort as teeth push through. Make sure your hands are washed thoroughly to maintain good hygiene during this sensitive stage.

3. Avoid Teething Gels with Benzocaine

Over-the-counter teething gels that contain benzocaine are not recommended for infants, as they can pose serious health risks. Instead, stick to natural methods of relief or consult your pediatric dentist in Paradise Valley for safe alternatives.

At Doctor Sugar Pediatric Dentistry, we can recommend baby-safe products specifically designed with oral health in mind.

4. Offer Healthy Teething-Friendly Snacks (If Age-Appropriate)

For older babies who have started solids, you can offer chilled slices of cucumber or apple under close supervision. These foods offer relief while introducing healthy options that won’t harm developing teeth.

Avoid sugary teething biscuits or juice, which can contribute to early childhood cavities—even before all the teeth have come in.

5. Clean Gums and Emerging Teeth Daily

Oral care doesn’t wait for a full set of teeth. Use a soft, damp cloth or an infant toothbrush to gently clean your baby’s gums and any visible teeth. This helps remove bacteria and gets your child used to the routine of dental hygiene early on.

Establishing good oral hygiene from the beginning is one of the best ways to prevent problems down the road.

6. Watch for Signs That Require a Dentist’s Attention

While fussiness and drooling are common during teething, symptoms like high fever, rashes, or persistent diarrhea are not typical and may indicate a separate issue. If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to consult your pediatrician or a trusted kids dentist in Paradise Valley.

Why Early Dental Habits Matter

Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play a critical role in speech development, chewing, and guiding permanent teeth into place. The sooner you begin healthy oral care, the more confident your child will feel in the dentist’s chair—and in their smile.

At Doctor Sugar Pediatric Dentistry in Paradise Valley, AZ, we’re here to help you through every stage of your child’s dental journey—from teething to teenage years.

Schedule Your Baby’s First Dental Visit

Did you know the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting? That early visit sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Contact Doctor Sugar today to book your child’s first dental appointment and get personalized support for teething and beyond.