Why teething gels are dangerous for the baby

A teether, cold food and of course, teething gels. Who hasn't tried everything to soothe baby's sore gums when teeth start to erupt?

Now the American Food and Drug Federation warns from the danger of the famous gels for baby's teeth. They may ease your pain, yes, but with dire consequences.

Baby teething gels are being sold not only as great pain relievers for babies' gums. They ensure that their active ingredients improve tooth growth. Especially for the phosphorica calcarea, an ingredient of homeopathic origin. They usually include among their ingredients chamomile, which is a powerful painkiller, belladonna, a plant that acts against irritation and raw coffea, which benefits the baby's sleep. So ... why is it harmful?

Many babies have developed this clinical picture after using teething tablets or gels:

- seizures

- Lethargy or excessive sleepiness

- Difficulty breathing

- Muscular weakness

- constipation

- Redness of the skin

This 'particular fight' of the American Federation of Medicines began years ago. Already in 2010 they sent an alert to doctors and pharmaceutical companies warning of the risk of teething tablets. A major pharmaceutical firm decided to withdraw them (CVS). The ingredient investigated was specifically the belladonna. However, many of the manufacturers of these products claim that the amount of this compound is 'negligible' and incapable of producing such adverse effects in children.

Be that as it may, until the American Academy of Pediatrics advise parents do not use these types of gels that include belladonna and benzocaine among their compounds.

If we can't use teething gels or tablets ... what can we do?

1. Massage the baby's gum with your finger (very clean).

2. Chill a clean cloth in the refrigerator and rub the baby's gums with it.

3. Use a stiff teether or ring that can bite down.

4. If the baby already takes solid foods, give him cold fruit, such as a banana, that he can bite into.

You can read more articles similar to Why teething gels are dangerous for the baby, in the On-Site Dental Care category.