Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, is helping parents navigate one of the most challenging baby milestones — teething.
The festive season is a time for joy, travel, and family get-togethers, but it can also be when your baby’s first teeth start to come through. This can bring extra fussiness, sleepless nights, and stress for parents. Knowing what’s normal, how to soothe your baby, and when to seek medical help can make a big difference in keeping both you and your little one comfortable during the holidays.

Understanding Teething

Teething is the natural process when a baby’s first teeth, called primary or “milk teeth”, begin to emerge through the gums. Most babies start teething between 6 and 10 months, though it can happen earlier or later. The first teeth to appear are usually the bottom front incisors, followed by the top front teeth. By around age three, most children will have their full set of 20 primary teeth.
The process can be uncomfortable because the teeth push through delicate gum tissue.

Common Signs of Teething

Every baby is different, but common signs that your little one is teething include:

• Drooling: Excess saliva can cause mild skin irritation around the mouth or chin.
• Gum swelling or tenderness: You may see redness or feel a slight bump where a tooth is coming through.
• Increased chewing: Babies often gnaw on fingers, toys, or anything they can reach to relieve gum pressure.
• Irritability or fussiness: The discomfort can make them clingier or cry more often, especially at night.
• Changes in eating or sleeping: Some babies feed less or wake more frequently during this phase.
• Slight temperature rise: A mild increase in body temperature is common, but a high fever (above 38°C) or persistent illness is not caused by teething and needs medical attention.

Myths and Facts about Teething

Myth 1: Teething causes fever and diarrhoea.

Fact: Teething might cause mild discomfort or a low-grade temperature, but not true fever or diarrhoea. These symptoms may indicate an infection and should be checked by a doctor.

Myth 2: You should stop feeding if the baby bites while breastfeeding.

Fact: Babies sometimes bite because of gum pain, not rejection. Gently remove them from the breast, give a teething toy, and try again once they settle.

Myth 3: Rubbing alcohol or aspirin on gums helps.

Fact: These home remedies are unsafe for babies and can cause serious harm. Stick to gentle, evidence-based soothing methods.

Safe Ways to Soothe Your Teething Baby

1. Offer Something Cold (But not Frozen)

Cold helps numb gum pain and reduce inflammation. Chill a clean, damp washcloth, a silicone teether, or a spoon in the fridge for 15–20 minutes, then let your baby chew or suck on it under supervision. Avoid frozen objects, which can injure delicate gums.

2. Choose Safe Teething Toys

Select BPA-free, food-grade silicone teethers or natural rubber rings. Avoid gel-filled or liquid-filled teethers that could leak or break. Clean and sanitise them regularly, especially when travelling or visiting relatives during the holidays.

3. Massage the Gums

Wash your hands thoroughly and gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger. This pressure can ease discomfort and distract from the pain.

4. Keep the Area Dry

Wipe drool regularly with a soft cloth to prevent rashes around the chin and neck. You can apply a thin layer of baby-safe barrier cream if irritation develops.

5. Offer Cold, Soft Foods (for Older Babies)

If your baby has started solids, chilled purees, yoghurt, or soft fruits like banana can soothe sore gums and provide comfort.

6. Use Pain Relief when Necessary — Safely

If your baby is very uncomfortable, consult your healthcare provider about giving an infant-safe pain reliever such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (in appropriate doses based on age and weight). Avoid over-the-counter teething gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine, as these ingredients can be harmful to infants.

7. Keep Routines Consistent

The holidays can disrupt sleep schedules and feeding times, which may worsen fussiness. Try to maintain regular naps and calm bedtime routines to help your baby feel secure and rested.

8. Comfort through Closeness

Cuddling, rocking, or carrying your baby in a sling can reduce stress and provide reassurance. Physical touch is one of the best natural pain relievers for babies.

Holiday-specific Teething Tips

• Plan for travel: Pack a small “teething kit” with bibs, pain relief medication, teethers, and extra clothes. Teething symptoms can flare up when routines change.
• Mind festive foods: Don’t dip teething toys in sweet foods or honey, as sugar can promote tooth decay, and honey isn’t safe for babies under one year old due to the risk of botulism.
• Watch for choking hazards: During family gatherings, babies can easily grab unsafe items like nuts, decorations, or small toy parts.
• Prioritise hydration: Extra drooling can make babies slightly dehydrated, especially in hot weather. Offer frequent breastfeeds or sips of water (for babies over six months).
• Stay calm and flexible: Babies pick up on stress. If your child is fussy during festive events, step away to a quiet area and comfort them. Remember that teething won’t last forever.

When to See a Doctor

While teething is normal, you should seek medical advice if your baby:

• Has a high fever (above 38°C) or persistent diarrhoea.
• Refuses to eat or drink for more than a few hours.
• Has swollen, bleeding gums or pus around a tooth.
• Seems unusually drowsy or inconsolable.
• Develops a rash unrelated to drooling.

The Bottom Line

Teething can be tough, especially when it overlaps with the excitement and chaos of the holidays. But with preparation, patience, and the proper soothing techniques, your baby’s discomfort can be managed safely and effectively. Remember that teething is temporary, and every new tooth is a sign of healthy growth and development. If you’re unsure about your baby’s symptoms or need quick, reliable advice, Affinity Health offers members access to 24/7 telehealth GP consultations, unlimited managed doctor visits at Medical Society centres, and a trusted network of healthcare professionals, ensuring your little one gets the care and comfort they need, whenever they need it.

About Affinity Health

Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health cover provider, offering you a range of options at affordable rates, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.