Types of Teethers

Teethers from Funskool and Flo-Rite are available in varied colours and attractive animals, birds, alphabets, ice-cream shaped and fruit shaped designs. There are few rattle designed teethers.

The price of teethers start from Rs. 50.

Usually, teethers are made entirely of silicon or with a silicon base and a plastic grip. These soft teethers are the filled with water and are available in different shapes.

Remember, these teethers should be kept in a freezer. Bring it down to room temperature before handing it to your toddler.

Paediatrician Dr. Ravindra Wattal says, "It is better to opt for the silicon based teether than a plastic one. This is because silicon will not harm your baby in any way and will be gentle on her gums. But when plastic is involved, your baby may bite on the plastic instead of the silicon which could cause injury no matter how soft or blunt the plastic is."

Is it Safe to Give Teethers?

Remember, it is a better option to give her a teether than for her to chew on anything and everything. By giving her the correct teether you can be sure that she is putting a soft and clean thing in her mouth.

A good alternative to plastic teethers is to  give her washed and peeled carrots to dig her gums into.

However, Dentist Dr. Sagar Shah says, "It is safer to give water filled teethers to your baby. Giving a teether will not interfere with the teeth eruption in anyway. It is a way to soothe their urge to chew."

Things You Need to Watch Out For…

Ensure that the teether does not have any sharp edges that can hurt your baby.

Remember, if the teether is too small, your baby could choke on it. Also, it shouldn't be very big either, because your baby will not be able to get a good grip.

The teether should be very gentle on your baby's gums. It should not be easily breakable because if your baby puts the teether in her mouth and if it breaks easily then your baby can swallow a small part and get choked.

When your baby puts the teether in her mouth, half of the teether should be in her mouth and major part of the teether should be out of her mouth.

Keep it Clean

It is very necessary to clean the teether from time to time. Your baby's immunity level is low as compared to an adult or an older child.

So if the teether is not clean, your baby could get an infection such as vomiting, diarrhoea or stomach problems.

Clean the teether with soap and warm water before you give it to your baby. Make sure there is no soap left on the teether. After use, wash it with soap and water again thoroughly, dry it and then pack and keep it in a safe place.

Teethers are definitely a good option for your toddler, provided you give her the right one and make sure that it is clean and safe.

(With Inputs from Dr. P.V. Vaidyanathan, Paediatrician and Child Specialist from Mumbai)