What can your do to help baby's teething discomfort?

• Gently massage the swollen gums with a clean finger.

• Tie a knot in a washcloth and dip it in apple juice. Throw it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. Offer this to baby.

• Keep teething rings in the refrigerator. Offer them for about 20 to 30 minutes and replace with an new cold ring. Don't freeze teething rings, this is too cold for your baby to hold onto.

• Popsicles are good for teething.

• Don't use teething ointments on babies younger than 6 months. They could numb the throat and cause your baby to choke.

• NEVER offer your baby any alcohol to numb sore gums. Babies have died from this!

• Use baby acetaminophen or ibuprofen if your baby is in a lot of pain. Ask you doctor how much to use.

Even though these baby teeth will eventually fall out and be replaced with permanent teeth, you still have to take care of these temporary teeth.

Be sure to wipe the new teeth with a wash cloth after baby is done feeding. You can also use gauze or a baby toothbrush.

Once there are teeth in baby's mouth, you can not let baby fall asleep with a bottle in his mouth. This will cause tooth decay very rapidly. If you must give baby a bedtime bottle, make sure it only contains water.