Teethers: types and features of choice

Expert: Orlova Svetlana Anatolyevna

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

The first teeth begin to appear in babies at 3-4 months. Parents are afraid of this period, because from the experience of other families they know that in some cases, teething is fraught with fever, severe pain, sleep disturbance and other not very pleasant consequences. To help the child bear the burden more easily, special teethers are designed to satisfy the desire to scratch and massage swollen gums.

Expertology experts selected the 9 best teethers and compiled a rating with them, briefly but succinctly telling about all the features, advantages and disadvantages of the models.

Rating of teethers

The selection included the most popular and reliable models based on customer reviews. The opinions of parents and pediatricians and the reactions of children to the use of one or another model were analyzed. Each option was considered from the point of view of ease of use, functionality, safety, and efficiency.

Among the characteristics that influenced the choice were:

• Type – glove, rattle, pacifier, ordinary;
• Materials – silicone, plastic, rubber, latex, fabric;
• Shape, weight and dimensions;
• Design and color;
• Minimum recommended age of the baby;
• Method of fixation – on the arm or in the palm;
• Suitable gender: girl or boy;
• Sound level (for rattles);
• Hypoallergenic and odorless;
• Surface relief.

In addition to the specified criteria, during the analysis of the nominees, the quality of seams, grip comfort, and surface hardness were considered. The achieved effects were also important - relieving itching and irritation of the gums, reducing pain, calming in addition to sedatives. It also took into account whether the product could be used as a toy.

Basic selection criteria

When choosing a teether, you should pay attention to some features. Among the rich and colorful assortment, it is important to find the right one.

Today there are a lot of teethers, which are distinguished by manufacturer, material, age of use and other parameters. Before buying a product, carefully study the composition and instructions, read reviews from other parents and consult with your pediatrician.

Choose comfortable and safe teethers for teeth of optimal size. It is important that the baby cannot swallow, but at the same time easily hold and bite the product. The toy must not contain harmful materials or paints. And the surface should not be too hard and without sharp corners.

Products are made from latex, silicone, plastic, rubber and even wood. Latex products are the softest, but wear out faster. Silicone products are durable and reliable, but harder and more rigid. It is important that the silicone teether has a suitable anatomical shape, since a product that is too hard contributes to the formation of malocclusion.

Many manufacturers indicate a number on the package depending on the stage of growth and location of the teeth. So, No. 1 is used when the lower front teeth appear. Teethers No. 2 are suitable for the upper front teeth, and No. 3 - for the lateral and back teeth. In addition, they produce universal products that are suitable for every occasion.

Here a lot depends not only on the individual preferences of the little one, but also on what teeth are being cut.

1. For a baby 4-6 months old whose central incisors are emerging, simple models made of soft silicone that are easy to grip are most suitable.
2. When the toddler's lateral incisors begin to erupt, it is better to offer him an oval-shaped and medium-hard rodent.
3. When the molars appear, the baby will like the teether, the design of which provides stimulation of the distant gums. And it should already be quite tough.

Sequence of teething in children

Table “Classification of teethers depending on the age of the child”

We focus on the material

The material from which the teether is made must meet all safety requirements. Ask the seller for a certificate of conformity.

Models with internal filling

Teethers can be filled with purified water or gel. A popular option is teethers with sea water inside. If such a toy is chewed through by the baby's first sharp tooth, sea water will soothe the inflamed gum tissue.

Appearance

Manufacturers of children's goods showed maximum imagination when making teethers. There are a great variety of them: pacifiers, rings, books, fruits and berries, rattles.

The more interesting and colorful the rodent, the better. Multifunctional models are also available for sale. For example, some toys are equipped with special pendants made of soft plastic or rubber. The child will chew them with great desire.

Focus on safety

Don't forget to pay attention to the size of the teether. It should not be too small so that the baby inadvertently does not fit it completely into his mouth.

This is interesting: Articulation and breathing exercises for babies: exercises for the tongue

It is worth making sure that the device is intact. If the material of the teether begins to crumble, you should not give it to your child.

Well, and, of course, it is important how good a reputation the manufacturing company has. The companies Avent, Nuk, Nuby, Doctor Brown`s, Happy baby, Tommee tippee, Canpol are famous for the quality of their products.

Choose several models depending on the type of teeth you are cutting.

Teether-gloves for teeth

Such products are made from soft and hard materials. The mitten is made of cotton, and the upper part, which is chewed, is made of silicone. Their advantages are a low probability of loss and attracting attention. Among the 8 candidates analyzed by the VyborExpert team, 2 models were included in the rating due to safety, convenience and efficiency.

Happy Baby

The product is intended for children over 4 months, from the moment the first teeth erupt. The model is put on the hand, fits tightly to the skin and is attached with Velcro, so it does not get lost during use. The glove is designed to fit wrists up to 5 cm thick and has a depth of 8.3 cm.

Happy Baby has a rather large hole (2 x 1.5 cm) for the thumb, which babies often suck. The lower part is made of soft fabric based on polyester and cotton, which does not chafe delicate skin when worn for a long time. Thanks to its high density, it does not wear out for a long time.

The top of the baby teether is made of hypoallergenic silicone with a textured surface, which effectively massages the gums and makes the process easier. The white and green color and star design are suitable for both girls and boys.

Advantages:

• High-quality seams;
• Silicone has virtually no odor;
• Elastic surface;
• Reduces pain;
• Easy fixation.

Flaws:

• It is more difficult to put on for a baby older than 7 months.

The model is recommended for use by children under 10 months. According to reviews, kids react to it with interest and chew with pleasure.

Roxy-Kids Sally

The device features a removable teether installed at the base. If the glove becomes dirty, it can be removed and washed. The rodent is small in size and fits easily in the mouth. The model helps to cope with painful sensations and calms. It can be used from the first days of life.

Roxy-Kids Sally, due to its textured surface with optimal rigidity, gently massages the gums and eliminates itching. The included scratch glove prevents skin injury. The product is easily and confidently fixed on the wrist due to the soft Velcro fastener, which prevents it from falling off.

The mitten has a loose cut and does not restrict the movement of the newborn’s fingers, so discomfort while wearing is eliminated. It is designed in the shape of a bright dog, Wuffy, with rustling elements in its ears. Due to this, fine motor skills are developed and attention is maintained.

Advantages:

• For care, simply wipe with running water;
• Easy to detach;
• Natural fabric that does not irritate the skin;
• No dyes in the composition;
• Thick elastic band.

Flaws:

• Do not wash together with silicone.

The model combines a toy, a scratcher and a teether. Children don't get tired of it for a long time.

Operating principle

The principle is simple:

• when pressure is applied to the gums, blood circulation improves and pain decreases;
• a silicone, rubberized or polypropylene base gently rubs the areas where teeth will soon erupt;
• the cooling gel inside the ring reduces inflammation and has a mild analgesic effect.

Note! Unlike dental gels and painkillers, which the doctor often prescribes during the period of teething, the rodent does not have a harmful effect on the body. The main thing is to buy a device made of non-toxic, high-quality material.

Teether rattles

These are universal products that combine the functions of both products. They have a sound accompaniment and make a rattling sound when twisted in your hand. Thanks to this, the baby also calms down. Such tasks are well performed by the following teething rattles, selected by Vyborexperta.ru specialists based on the results of an analysis of customer reviews.

Curaprox Curababy

The teether comes in the form of a rattle that can be chewed and chewed. This soothes the gums and reduces pain. Thanks to the semi-ring shape, the child can grab the product from one hand to the other and does not get tired of it for a long time.

Curaprox Curababy is made of semi-rigid materials - plastic and rubber, which do not damage fabrics. It makes a lot of noise and develops motor skills, sensory skills, and general motor reactions well. Sound effects attract kids and make the process interesting.

The rubber device is easy to care for - it can be wiped by hand with a damp cloth and washed in the dishwasher. The materials do not have an unpleasant odor and the product is safe. The design is designed in white and pale pink, suitable for both girls and boys.

Advantages:

• Does not bend when chewing;
• Convenient shape;
• Neat sizes;
• Fits in the handle;
• Pleasant to the touch surface.

Flaws:

• Overpriced.

The manufacturer has established a minimum age of 2. It can be used as an ordinary rattle.

Stellar Forest House

The teether is designed in the shape of a forest house, which attracts the attention of babies. Sound effects allow you to hold it - the product rattles loudly and additionally plays the role of a rattle. There is a small mirror on the inside that the child can look into.

Stellar Forest House is suitable for both boys and girls, as it is designed in a neutral orange-green color scheme. The minimum recommended age for use is 3 months, and there are no strict restrictions on the maximum.

The model is compact in size and safe materials. The base (barrel) is made of hypoallergenic and durable plastic that does not cause irritation to the mucous membrane. The tree crown, made of soft, odorless silicone, acts as a teether.

Advantages:

• Well calms;
• Relieves pain;
• Affordable price;
• Does not cause gum irritation;
• Pleasant to the touch materials.

Flaws:

• Cannot be hung from the side of the bed.

As reviews show, the silicone teether has proven itself well as a toy that children willingly spend time with.

Giraffes Butterfly Mia

The rattle is interesting because of its design in the shape of a bright butterfly. The designers used rich colors - orange, yellow, pink. The teether is installed on the side in the shape of wings. Low rigidity and slight relief make its use effective during the appearance of teeth.

The device is suitable for use as a toy. The multi-colored rings are easy to move with your fingers, which helps in developing tactile sensations. The product gently massages the gums without damaging the surface. Small dimensions (15 cm) provide a comfortable grip.

The materials are non-slippery, so the product sits securely in your hand during games. It is recommended to use it starting from six months. However, reviews write that the rattle is often used from 3 months. The model makes sounds, which interests babies.

Advantages:

• Bright design;
• Versatility of use;
• Material safety;
• You can also chew the antennae;
• No unpleasant odors.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

As reviews show, the child quickly calms down and stops crying when chewing the teether.

Pigeon Educational

The product combines the functions of a teether and a rattle. The model consists entirely of environmentally friendly rubber, which does not cause unpleasant sensations when chewing. The surface does not wear out for a long time due to its high density. The optimal level of rigidity eliminates chafing of the gums.

Products from Pigeon have sound effects and keep kids entertained. The device rattles loudly, which attracts babies. There is enough surface space for easy grip. The non-slip coating guarantees a comfortable “fit” in the hand and reduces the likelihood of getting lost on the street.

The model is made in the shape of a flower and is designed in bright colors. The design uses yellow, orange, green, pink, and turquoise tones. Due to this design, the teether can be used when teeth appear in both girls and boys.

Advantages:

• Convenient shape;
• Fits comfortably in the hand;
• Small sizes;
• Soft materials;
• Hypoallergenic.

Flaws:

• Not recommended for use in children under 7 months.

Reviews write that the baby manages to symmetrically grasp a flat toy and bring it to his mouth with one hand. The rings make a melodious sound when in contact with each other.

Tips for use

• Teether should not be a way to speed up the appearance of teeth; give it to your child as needed.
• If swollen gums have become the cause of your baby's severe anxiety and whims, help him by massaging them with your clean finger and putting a special silicone massage attachment on it. This will help alleviate the baby's condition.
• If you purchased a teether, but your son or daughter refuses to chew on it, do not be discouraged. As soon as the need arises, the kids will master the new toy themselves.
• It is very important to always wash the teether with baby soap or baby product before giving it to your baby. Kids often use a rodent as a toy, so it can end up anywhere: on the floor, in food, in a pocket. Strictly maintain hygiene. Dry the toy naturally in the air.

Rules for using a teether

• Before each use, wash the product with baby soap or special baby detergents;
• Give your baby a teether only as needed;
• Before using the brush attachment, rinse your finger thoroughly;
• Keep the cooling teether in the refrigerator for no more than an hour and do not put the toy in the freezer!;
• Do not boil or heat the product;
• Do not use toys with small or removable parts or laces;
• Do not use too hard teethers or products that are not suitable for the child’s age;
• Do not use a damaged toy;
• Carefully check the material for integrity. Otherwise, the child may bite off and swallow part of the product;
• Choose teethers made from safe materials, without toxic substances and odorless;
• Choose the optimal size;
• Dry the toy naturally without using a battery, hair dryer, microwave, etc.

Cooling teethers

The benefit of these devices is to cool the gums, thereby calming the mucous membrane and reducing pain. For such purposes, a special gel or purified water is used as a filler. The anesthetic effect from the rating is provided by 3 cooling teethers.

Chicco Fresh Relax

...The child chews it with pleasure and quickly calms down. The model makes the process of teeth appearing less painful...

Expert opinion

The teether is specially designed to soothe irritated gums. It contains a liquid inside that relieves itching and pain during the appearance of the first teeth. The ring is small in size and easier for the baby to chew. Thanks to its high density, the surface can withstand long-term loads.

Chicco Fresh Relax is designed for children from 4 months and can be used from the moment the first tooth erupts. By using sterilized water, the soft plastic part stays cold throughout the day. This increases the effectiveness of reducing mucosal sensitivity.

The model is characterized by a pronounced, relief pattern, so it is pleasant to chew. The handle is made of hard vulcanized rubber for a comfortable grip. In the manufacture of products, plastic was also used, which does not cause allergies upon contact with mucous membranes.

Advantages:

• Works quickly;
• The effect lasts for a long time;
• No need to pre-boil;
• Strong cooling properties;
• Suitable for both boys and girls.

Flaws:

• Can be given to a baby no younger than 4-5 months.

Before giving your baby a gel-filled ring, it is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 minutes.

BabyOno Soft silicone teether

A characteristic feature of the teether is that it is made of 100% silicone. This material is hard enough to eliminate discomfort and at the same time moderately soft to prevent gum injury. Thanks to this, the product can be chewed around the entire perimeter.

BabyOno Soft silicone teether has an anatomical shape that takes into account the position of future teeth in the mouth. Therefore, maximum efficiency is ensured during chewing. Externally, the model resembles a pacifier and has the same small dimensions, easily fitting into a small child's hand.

The minimum acceptable age for use is 3 months. The design is suitable for both girls and boys due to the presence of several colors - blue, pink, mint. The teether has a cooling effect that helps relieve gum irritation.

Advantages:

• Compact size;
• Does not wear out for a long time;
• Nice materials;
• Optimal rigidity;
• Universal colors.

Flaws:

• Not low cost.

Those who bought a teether write that it helps them appear faster and makes the process easier.

Canpol Babies Water teether “Car” 2/207

The main feature of the model is the ability to use it from the very birth of the child. The main objectives of the product are to massage the gums, have an anesthetic effect, and reduce discomfort. Such effects are achieved due to the cooling properties of the plastic from which the structure is made.

Canpol Babies Water teether is designed in the shape of a car and looks like a toy. Therefore, first of all, it is designed for boys. This design arouses keen interest among babies. The material is filled with distilled water, which maintains a low surface temperature and helps eliminate pain.

For an effective effect, before use, you must leave the teether in the refrigerator compartment (not in the freezer!). The toy is involved in the development of fine motor skills, improves concentration and color perception. There is a hole in the center that is convenient for the baby to grasp.

Advantages:

• Comfortable to hold;
• Does not rub gums;
• Small sizes;
• It doesn't smell like anything;
• Does not cause irritation.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Judging by the reviews, children enjoy playing with the machine and do not get bored with it for a long time.

When and why are teethers needed?

Teethers not only help with pain and calm the baby.
They form a correct bite, develop fine motor skills and prepare the child for the process of chewing adult food. Teethers massage the gums, which eliminates unpleasant and painful sensations. Massage increases blood flow, which speeds up the process of tooth emergence. Teethers begin to be used when the first teeth appear. At 3-5 months, choose a lightweight model without additional parts. At six months, “rodents” with special protrusions are used for the lateral teeth. After seven months, when molars begin to emerge, more rigid models with a special ergonomic shape are suitable.

Teether-pacifier

For the health of developing teeth, pacifiers with a textured surface are useful, making teething easier. They are made of plastic, rubber or silicone. Among these varieties, the following model deserves special attention.

Baby I'm a Berry

The model is designed specifically for children over 3 months. Its purpose is to eliminate discomfort during the appearance of the first teeth and speed up the process. The product is made of soft hypoallergenic silicone, which does not injure the gums even with prolonged chewing.

Baby Ya Berry has a hole that serves as a handle. It is convenient for a child to grab onto it, but due to the lack of elements for fixation, it may fall out of the palm. The teether weighs 0.023 kg and is not difficult for the baby to hold. Compact dimensions – 150 x 90 x 40 cm, provide a comfortable grip.

Since each part is made of silicone, the entire product can be chewed. The model is presented in the form of a berry – a raspberry with “leaves”. The bright red color attracts attention, and the textured surface helps eliminate pain and relieve irritation of the gums.

Advantages:

• Rich colors – red and light green;
• No pungent odor;
• Quality materials;
• Easily chewed;
• High density.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Reviews show that the teether can be used up to 7-8 months, when the teeth have already appeared.

How to care

Depending on the material, products may require different care. Silicone rodents are processed in special devices. They tolerate this process much easier. They can be sterilized many times without losing their original appearance. But you don't need to do this every day. After use, the teether should be immersed in boiling water and left to dry.

Products made of latex and plastic lose their appearance with frequent sterilization. The procedure must be carried out with hot water and detergents. Wooden products do not tolerate water and high temperatures.

How to choose a teether

To avoid damaging the baby’s delicate gums, the product should be made of soft materials that are comfortable to chew and gnaw. A textured surface is welcome, facilitating massage of the mucous membrane, relieving irritation and eliminating painful sensations.

Type

For children from 3 months old, teething mittens with a hole for the thumb are suitable. They are securely attached to the hand using Velcro and do not fall off while chewing.

For a child over 5 months old, pacifiers are perfect because they are great for soothing and developing the sucking reflex.

If the baby is restless, then you should prefer rattles that make loud sounds when shaking.

Material

Silicone devices are recognized as the simplest and safest, which can be disinfected by boiling. They are odorless and tasteless, so children chew them with pleasure.

If the pain is strong and the baby is restless, then you should take a closer look at latex models. They are distinguished by increased elasticity and the ability to wash in warm water with baby soap. They are great for teething back teeth.

Among the eco-friendly options for babies with sensitive gums, you can choose a wooden teether. But it is very rough and is rarely found on the market now.

Among the universal options, mixed devices - made of silicone and plastic or fabric - are of interest. These massagers are suitable for children over 3 months of age who are erupting their first teeth.

Age

The first teeth appear at about 6 months, but begin to form 2-3 months before that. Therefore, gums can be bothersome already at the age of 3-4 months. In this case, rigid products are not yet required; silicone and latex models are sufficient.

Closer to 5 months, you will need denser options that provide effective massage and eliminate pain. At this time, the back molars are forming, so the product must fit in the mouth.

Peculiarities

To attract the child’s attention and maintain interest, the color should be bright and eye-catching - light green, blue, pink, turquoise. Boys can choose calmer shades - green, red, blue. To protect your baby, it is recommended to take items with a scratch pad included.

From what age should I use it?

Every baby starts teething at a different age. For some, the first tooth appears at 4 months, while for others it may appear only at the age of one year. You can give teethers to your baby from the age of three months. It is from this age that he develops an interest in surrounding objects that he will pull into his mouth. For starters, the most common rodents will do. After six months, you can give teethers with different effects and more complex shapes. The size of the product should be slightly larger than the baby’s fist.

Which teether is best?

If functionality is important to parents, then children are primarily interested in the appearance of the teether and the possibility of using it as a toy. Therefore, it would not be a mistake to buy a model with various rings, ears, antennae, for example, in the form of a butterfly.

Each of the children's teethers presented in the TOP has its own characteristics:

• When forming the upper central incisors, products from Happy Baby are relevant, which are suitable for babies over 4 months.
• If the baby is hyperactive and there is a risk of injury with nails, then you should take a closer look at Roxy-Kids Sally with a scratch pad included.
• For restless babies, the Curaprox Curababy rattle made of plastic and rubber is suitable.
• For entertainment, you can choose the Stellar Forest House as a toy, which arouses keen interest among children.
• If your gums are itchy and itchy, then the “Giraffes Butterfly Mia” model with optimal rigidity will be just right.
• A universal option, suitable for both girls and boys, is Pigeon Educational.
• To eliminate severe pain and relieve irritation of the mucous membrane, you will need a cooling Chicco Fresh Relax or BabyOno Soft silicone teether.
• From birth you can use Canpol Babies Water teether “Car” 2/207 made of plastic.
• To speed up and facilitate the teething process in babies over 3 months old, Kroshka Ya Yagodka will be useful.

The use of a teether helps to get rid of pain and discomfort only if you choose a high-quality, safe, comfortable product. The review was prepared based on this.

Let's sum it up

Despite the wide range, choosing a quality teether is not easy. Before purchasing, you need to check the quality certificates to make sure there are no small parts or unpleasant odors. Be prepared that the rodent you choose may not be suitable for your baby, so it is wise to start with relatively inexpensive, but high-quality models. This way you will avoid unnecessary expenses. In order not to make a bad choice, take note of the models from our rating that most parents liked.

How to survive the difficult period when your baby is teething? Watch a video with useful tips from Dr. Komarovsky:

TOP 5 quality teethers

Which teether is better than others? There is no clear answer here. Still, the choice of this device is individual. Some people like soft rubberized material, others like gel filler and massage pimples. For older children, more rigid models are suitable.

Global manufacturers of children's goods have released a wide range of baby teethers. The choice is up to the parents of the little explorer and, of course, to himself. The best option would be to purchase several toys at once. The child will get to know them and choose the one that is most convenient for him at the moment.

Nuby

Nuby

Teethers from Nuby have won the trust of many mothers. They are made in the form of contrasting bright toys. Kids love them. These teethers are universal, developing their horizons, imaginative thinking and finger motor skills. Nuby toys are suitable for children from 3 months and are made of silicone, soft and rubberized plastic.

Tommee tippee

Tommee tippee

The English company Tommee tippee produces excellent models of teethers for medium teeth. Such models contain several surface options, allowing the baby to choose the one he likes.

The company makes teethers from safe rubberized plastic. The products are recommended for use from 4 months of age.

Vulli

Vulli - Sophie the giraffe, Sham mushroom

The French company Vulli produces many popular models of teething toys. The most popular are Sophie the giraffe and Sham mushroom. Their interesting design and functionality appeal to both children and mothers.

They are safe and cute. These models have become real favorites among kids. Material: natural rubber plus food-based paint. There are no age restrictions for use.