The Benefits of Teethers (And How to Use Them Safely)
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Teething can be a tricky stage — lots of drool, lots of mouthing, and often a very unimpressed baby. The good news: for most babies, a well-designed teether is a simple, safe way to support comfort and development. Here’s what science and trusted Australian & New Zealand health guidance tells us.
What’s Actually Happening When Babies Teethe?
Teeth begin moving through the gums months before you see them. That pressure can make gums feel tender, and babies often respond the same way they respond to most new sensations: they explore it with their mouth. Mouthing and chewing are normal developmental behaviours — not “bad habits”.
How Teethers Help: 5 Evidence-Informed Benefits
1) Comfort through counter-pressure
When babies bite down on a teether, the gentle pressure can temporarily ease gum discomfort (similar to how rubbing a sore muscle can feel relieving). Many Australian resources specifically recommend offering something safe to bite on, like a cold (not frozen) teething ring.
2) Cooling can reduce “hot gum” sensation
A teether cooled in the fridge adds soothing cold alongside pressure. Health guidance in Australia and New Zealand commonly suggests chilled teethers — and warns against freezing them solid (too hard/too cold can irritate gums).
3) Supports healthy oral-motor practice
Chewing is not only comfort-seeking; it’s also practice. Biting and mouthing help babies coordinate jaw, tongue and hand-to-mouth movements — skills that later support feeding.
4) Sensory learning (texture + grip)
Babies learn through sensory input. Different textures provide “interesting” feedback to the mouth and hands, which can keep babies calmly engaged. A good teether is easy to grasp, has varied textures, and is sized so baby can independently bring it to their mouth.
5) A safer alternative to chewing random objects
Teething babies will chew something. A dedicated teether helps reduce chewing on unsafe items (small parts, painted surfaces, keys, or anything you can’t properly clean).
Choosing a Safe Teether: A Quick Checklist
- One solid piece (or securely constructed) with no parts that can break off.
- Large enough that it can’t be fully inserted into the mouth (choking risk).
- Easy to clean (and cleaned often) — especially after being on the floor or in a bag.
- Fridge-cool, not frozen — avoid rock-hard teethers.
- Age-appropriate design (grip-friendly, not overly heavy, no sharp edges).
- Use only under supervision and stop using if you see damage or tearing.
When It’s Not “Just Teething”
Some symptoms get incorrectly attributed to teething. If your baby has a high fever, persistent diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration, unusual rash, or seems very unwell, seek medical advice. Trusted guidance in Australia emphasises that teething symptoms are usually mild and short-lived — and that significant illness should be assessed.
- Fever (especially ≥ 38°C)
- Persistent diarrhoea or vomiting
- Marked lethargy, poor feeding, fewer wet nappies
- Symptoms lasting more than a couple of days or worsening
How to Use Teethers Well (Simple Routine)
- Clean the teether before first use and regularly thereafter.
- Cool in the fridge (avoid freezing solid).
- Offer during fussy windows (often late afternoon/evening) or before naps if gums seem tender.
- Observe how baby chews — if they seem to prefer certain textures, keep one “favourite” and one “backup”.
- Inspect for damage and replace if worn.
Bottom Line
Teethers work because they match what teething babies naturally want to do: mouth, bite, and explore. With the right size, texture, and safe use, a teether can support calmer moments, comfort sore gums, and encourage healthy oral-motor practice.