Teething Biscuits

These biscuits are another option for tackling the symptoms of teething. The main problem with teething is the pain caused by the new milk teeth pushing their way through your baby's gums. The gums become red, swollen and inflamed before this occurs plus the pressure put on them by these new teeth cause pain and discomfort.

Teething rings, keys and dummies can help but another option is teething biscuits.

Teething biscuits should only be given to babies who have been weaned and have started on solids. Do not give them to a baby who is still on liquids as they will be unable to ingest these.

How do you know if your baby is ready for teething biscuits?

This is very much an individual thing. All babies are different and grow and develop at different rates. So whereas one baby may be mature and capable of chewing these biscuits another will not yet have the ability to chew solid food. The main concern is that of choking. The last thing you want is for your little one to choke on a piece of biscuit so it is a good idea to check for this beforehand. In other words, you are going to act as a guinea pig.

Bite into one of these biscuits. By the way, when we say bite into one of these do say in a similar way to a baby. So take small bites only. If the biscuit breaks or crumbles very easily then it is unlikely to be safe for your baby. But if it dissolves straightaway then it is safe for your baby to eat. If you are still unsure then ask your health visitor or pharmacist for advice before buying these biscuits.

Are teething biscuits similar to ordinary biscuits?

They look very similar but don't get carried away with the idea that they are a baby version of custard creams, jammie dodgers, chocolate chip cookies or any other varieties of biscuit that we enjoy. They are plain looking biscuits which are designed for medicinal purposes rather than as a companion for a cup of tea or coffee. Plus this will stop you swiping a few of these when you get the urge for something sweet during the day.

Your little one is unlikely to be discerning when it comes to biscuits and will be unable to appreciate the finer points of a rich tea finger or a bourbon cream. So they will not be able to tell the difference between a teething biscuit and an ordinary (yummy) biscuit. What a good teething biscuit should contain is a balance of all the essential nutrients that your baby needs. These include starchy (complex) carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals. These biscuits not only relieve gum soreness but also teach your little one how to chew food and to become accustomed to eating on their own. Plus they are ideal for a hungry baby as a snack before they are given a meal. There is the option to bake your own teething biscuits but you need to be careful if you do so as they need to be both safe and nutritious. One example are 'Bickiepegs': these are a long, peg shaped biscuit which have a ribbon attached at one end. They have the added bonus of not only relieving the pain of teething but also give your baby's teeth and jaws a workout as well. A good way of getting your little one used to solids. They look similar to the pegs you use to hang out your washing: hence the name.