Teething: safe comfort, and what to avoid

What the FDA says to avoid

• Gels, creams and liquids with benzocaine, which the FDA says can cause a serious blood condition that reduces the oxygen blood carries, sometimes fatal.
• Prescription oral viscous lidocaine, which can cause serious harm.
• Homeopathic teething tablets and gels, and topical teething products generally: the FDA says they offer little to no benefit and carry serious risks.
• Teething jewelry such as amber necklaces and bracelets. The FDA has received reports of deaths and serious injuries, including strangulation and choking.

What the FDA says is safe

• Gently rub or massage the gums with a clean finger.
• Give a firm rubber teether that is not liquid-filled. Don't freeze it: one that is too hard can hurt the gums.
• Watch your child while they chew on a teether.

When do teeth come in?

The FDA says babies typically begin teething around 4 to 7 months, and most children have a total of 20 baby teeth by age 3.