Teething Support in Neath

BOOK A FREE NHS COMMON AILMENT APPOINTMENT FOR TEETHING SUPPORT

Teething can be a tough time — for both little ones and their parents. If your baby seems unsettled, is dribbling more than usual, or has sore gums, we’re here to help. At The Health Dispensary and Neath Pharmacy, our friendly pharmacists can provide expert guidance and, if needed, free NHS-approved treatment for babies over 3 months old.

What Is Teething?

Teething is when a baby’s teeth start to come through their gums — usually between 4 to 12 months of age. Most babies will have a full set of teeth by around 2 to 3 years old. While it’s a normal part of development, it can cause some discomfort just before each tooth appears.

Common signs of teething include:

• Sore or swollen gums
• Increased dribbling
• Red cheeks or flushed face
• More biting, chewing or sucking
• Mildly raised temperature (not over 38°C)
• Irritability or wakefulness
• Rubbing ears or face
• Reduced appetite or disturbed sleep

How We Can Help

Our pharmacists can offer reassurance and help you choose the right support. If your baby is over 3 months old and self-care isn’t helping, we may recommend short-term use of sugar-free infant paracetamol or ibuprofen for relief.

Gentle Home Remedies

• Rub the gums gently with a clean finger
• Offer a clean, cool (not frozen) teething ring or damp flannel
• Try cold fruit or veg like cucumber or banana (for weaned babies only)
• Give cool, sugar-free drinks to soothe
• Cuddle, comfort, and play to distract and reassure
• Wipe away drool to prevent skin rashes

Toothcare Tips

• Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears
• Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste for babies, and a pea-sized amount from age 3
• Take your child to the dentist by the time their first tooth comes through — usually by 6 months old

When to Get More Help

Teething symptoms are usually mild. But see your GP or Call 111 if your child:

• Has a high fever (above 38°C)
• Develops diarrhoea or other unusual symptoms
• Seems very unwell or in distress
• Has symptoms that don’t improve or last a long time

What to Avoid

• Avoid teething gels with local anaesthetics unless advised by a pharmacist
• Never use adult gels or those containing salicylates (risk of Reye’s syndrome)
• Herbal and homeopathic remedies are not proven to help and aren’t recommended

Book an Appointment

You can book your free NHS teething consultation online or visit our pharmacy in Neath. If NHS treatment isn’t suitable, we may still be able to support you privately — just ask our team.

FAQs about Teething

Q: When do babies start teething?
A: Most babies begin teething around 4 to 6 months, though it can start earlier or later.

Q: Can teething cause a high fever?
A: No — teething may cause a slightly raised temperature, but a fever over 38°C should be checked by a GP.

Q: What pain relief can I give my baby?
A: If your baby is over 3 months and self-care isn’t enough, we may recommend sugar-free infant paracetamol or ibuprofen.

Q: Should I see a dentist during teething?
A: Yes! It’s a great time to introduce your baby to the dentist — ideally by six months old.