When a baby begins teething, it's a new and sometimes challenging phase for parents as well. During this process, babies often experience itchy or sore gums, leading to fussiness and discomfort. This is where teethers come in handy. Teethers are specially designed to allow babies to safely chew and soothe their gums. They’re typically made to be easy for small hands to hold.
In this article, we’ll explore why teethers are necessary and compare three popular materials used for teethers: natural rubber, silicone, and plastic.
1. Why Are Teethers Necessary?
As babies start to grow teeth, their gums can become tender and itchy, which is often uncomfortable for them. Teethers help in several ways:
● Soothing Gum Irritation
By chewing on a teether, babies can apply pressure to their gums, relieving discomfort and soothing irritation.
● Supporting the Teething Process
Teethers help strengthen the gums, making it easier for teeth to emerge smoothly and naturally.
● A Safe Chewing Option
Babies tend to put everything in their mouths. A teether provides a safe, clean, and appropriate object to chew on, reducing the risk of putting harmful items in their mouths.
● Encouraging Oral Development
Chewing promotes the development of muscles around the mouth, which can support early speech development and improve feeding skills later on.
2. Comparing Teether Materials: Natural Rubber, Silicone, and Plastic
Teethers come in various materials, but the most commonly used are natural rubber, silicone, and plastic. Understanding their characteristics can help you choose the safest and most suitable one for your baby.
(1) Natural Rubber
Characteristics:
Natural rubber is made from the sap of rubber trees. It's soft and elastic, making it ideal for teething babies.
Pros:
- Naturally safe: Made without synthetic chemicals, it’s gentle on a baby’s sensitive skin and considered low-risk for allergies.
- Soft and flexible: Offers a pleasant, soothing chewing experience.
- Eco-friendly: Naturally biodegradable and made from renewable resources, it minimizes environmental impact.
Cons:
- May have a natural odor: Natural rubber can have a distinctive smell, though it usually fades over time.
Example:
Sophie la girafe, made from 100% natural rubber and food-grade paint, is a popular choice.
(2) Silicone
Characteristics:
Silicone is a synthetic material known for its heat resistance and flexibility. Many silicone teethers are lightweight and ergonomically designed.
Pros:
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Soft yet durable: Long-lasting and resistant to wear and tear. Easy to clean and hygienic.
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Odorless: Silicone has no noticeable smell and is safe to put in the mouth.
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Food-grade safety: Specially made silicone for babies ensures health and safety.
Cons:
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Difficult to recycle: Though durable, silicone is not biodegradable, and disposal may have a greater environmental impact than natural rubber.
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Varies in firmness: Softness and hardness can differ depending on the brand or product, and may not suit every baby.
(3) Plastic
Characteristics:
Plastic teethers are usually inexpensive and come in many colors and shapes. They’re lightweight and visually engaging for babies.
Pros:
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Affordable: Generally cheaper than other materials.
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Light and easy to handle: Easy for babies to hold. The bright colors and fun designs help keep babies interested.
Cons:
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Chemical concerns: Some plastic products may contain harmful substances like BPA or phthalates. Always check for labels such as “BPA-free.”
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Environmental impact: Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose and contributes to long-term waste.
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Potentially less durable: Plastic may wear out faster and get damaged by strong chewing.
3. Conclusion
Teethers are an essential tool for helping babies cope with the discomfort of teething. Choosing the right teether involves understanding the differences between natural rubber, silicone, and plastic, and considering your baby’s preferences and needs.
Environmental impact should also be a consideration—natural rubber is biodegradable and sustainable, whereas silicone and plastic are more durable but less eco-friendly.
Above all, safety should be your top priority. Always check product information, materials, and certifications to ensure you're giving your baby the best possible teething experience.
