Pharmacy First – Teething

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

What Should I Do If My Child is Teething?

From as early as three months, up until the age of three, teething can cause discomfort and pain, disturbed sleep and restlessness, red and swollen gums, hot cheeks, excess salivation and dribbling, nappy rash and an increased tendency to chew objects.

The use of cooled teething rings can give the babies something to chew on to help reduce the sensation of pain. Using a finger to rub the gums can also provide relief from the discomfort for the child. Extra comforting may be all that is required, and the above should be tried first line before any medical treatment.

If the above does not provide the baby with enough comfort, then teething gels or paracetamol are suitable to help resolve the discomfort.

Why Visit the Pharmacy First?

By knowing when it is appropriate to visit your local pharmacy first, you can ensure that you are receiving the most appropriate level of care by a suitable healthcare professional at the right time. By choosing to visit the pharmacist first, you will get the clinical advice and support you need on the same day and only be signposted to your GP if needed.

A pharmacist will refer the following patients to their GP but if you fall under any of the below patient groups, it may still be worth contacting your pharmacist first to get help and advice quicker while you wait for your appointment.

• Children aged over 3 years
• Babies aged under 2 months
• White spots visible in the mouth
• Children with a temperature above 38C

All information is correct at the time of writing.