How to Soothe Teething with Baby Toothbrushes

By Babies R Us Australia | Published: 2026-10-30

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to use baby toothbrushes for teething relief. Step-by-step guide with tips for choosing the right brush and soothing sore gums safely.

Quick answer

Using a soft baby toothbrush to gently massage sore gums can provide effective teething relief while introducing healthy oral care habits early.

Why a toothbrush helps with teething

Teething can be uncomfortable for babies as their first teeth push through tender gums. A soft-bristled baby toothbrush not only cleans emerging teeth but also provides gentle massage that soothes irritation. Unlike hard teething rings, a toothbrush is designed for oral care, making it a dual-purpose tool.

Choosing the right brush

Look for a toothbrush with ultra-soft bristles and a small, easy-to-hold handle. Brushes designed for ages 0-3 are ideal because they accommodate tiny mouths and delicate gums. Avoid brushes with hard or scratchy materials that could worsen discomfort.

How to use a baby toothbrush for teething relief

Choose the right toothbrush: Pick a soft-bristled baby toothbrush designed for ages 0-3. Both the Fridababy ToothHugger and Nuby NanaNubs Banana Massaging Toothbrush are excellent options with gentle bristles. Check that the bristles feel soft to your finger before using them on your baby's gums.
Prepare the brush: Wash the toothbrush with warm water and a drop of baby-safe toothpaste (if your baby is over 6 months). For younger babies, just wet the bristles with water. Never use adult toothpaste or fluoride toothpaste for babies under 2 years without pediatrician approval.
Massage the gums gently: Hold the brush and let your baby chew on the bristles or gently rub the brush along the gum line in small circular motions. Focus on areas where teeth are emerging. Stop if your baby shows signs of discomfort; some babies prefer a cold brush (refrigerated for 10 minutes) for extra soothing.
Clean and store the brush: Rinse the toothbrush thoroughly after each use and let it air-dry upright. Replace it every 3 months or sooner if bristles become frayed. Store the brush in a clean, dry place away from other toothbrushes to prevent cross-contamination.

Product facts

Fridababy ToothHugger: The Fridababy ToothHugger is a gentle oral care tool designed for little ones from birth to age 3, made by a trusted baby health brand. Its unisex design and bright yellow color make it easy to keep clean and spot in a diaper bag, so you can offer teething relief anywhere.
Fridababy ToothHugger
Nuby NanaNubs Banana Massaging Toothbrush: The Nuby NanaNubs Banana Massaging Toothbrush features soft massaging bristles that are gentle on tender gums and emerging teeth. The playful banana shape and comfortable handle make it fun for babies to hold, encouraging them to chew and massage sore gums themselves.
Nuby NanaNubs Banana Massaging Toothbrush