Teething has long been a source of concern for parents, leading to a variety of remedies and practices throughout history. While modern medicine offers safe and effective ways to manage teething discomfort, historical approaches were often based on misconceptions and lacked scientific backing. This article explores some of the historical practices and beliefs surrounding teething.
Early Beliefs and Practices
In the sixteenth century, the French surgeon Ambroise Paré introduced
the practice of lancing gums with a lancet. This was based on the belief that teeth failed to emerge due to a lack of a pathway, and that this failure could lead to death. This practice persisted for centuries, despite its controversial nature and lack of evidence supporting its efficacy.
Lancing was not the only questionable practice. In the past, teething was often wrongly attributed as a cause of death in infants. In 1842, teething was recorded as the cause of death in a significant percentage of infants in London. This belief was so prevalent that it overshadowed other potential causes of illness and death in young children.
Controversial Remedies and Their Decline
As medical understanding advanced, the practice of lancing gums became increasingly controversial and was eventually abandoned. However, as late as 1938, some dental textbooks still advised in favor of lancing, highlighting the slow shift in medical practices.
Other historical remedies included the use of teething powders, which often contained harmful substances like calomel, a form of mercury. These powders were used well into the twentieth century until the harmful effects of mercury poisoning, known as "pink disease," were recognized. The removal of calomel from teething powders marked a significant step forward in ensuring the safety of teething remedies.
Modern Understanding and Practices
Today, the understanding of teething has improved significantly, and the focus is on providing safe and effective relief for infants. Modern remedies include the use of teethers and child-safe medications, with an emphasis on avoiding practices that pose risks to infants.
The historical journey of teething remedies highlights the importance of scientific research and evidence-based practices in medicine. While past practices were often based on misconceptions, they paved the way for the development of safer and more effective methods to manage teething discomfort. This evolution underscores the ongoing need for research and education in pediatric care.
