HeySolids
Choking risk
Teething wafers are a low choking risk - they're designed to dissolve as baby gums them - but a well-soaked wafer can still snap into soft chunks, so they're for a baby who sits well, with you right there.
Hand over one wafer at a time and take away any large softened piece that breaks off. See how to serve for age-by-age prep.
Allergens
A teething wafer's allergens depend entirely on the recipe - many are plain rice-based, but plenty contain wheat, milk, or egg.
Check the box, and introduce each allergen it lists on its own before offering the wafer itself.[1]
Start with a small amount and watch for a reaction.
Food safety
Many wafers run on refined starch and added sugar, which isn't recommended under 2, so read the label and pick an unsweetened one if you buy them.[2][3]
Wafers are optional - a chilled washcloth or a refrigerated teether soothes gums just as well for free.
How to serve
9+ months old
One whole wafer to hold and gnaw
A single wafer at a time
Once baby sits well and is gumming food confidently, hand over one wafer to work on. Gnawing gives sore gums counter-pressure, and the wafer softens as it goes - swap in a fresh one when it gets soggy rather than letting big soft pieces break loose.
Choose an unsweetened brand whose allergens you've already introduced, and serve one at a time.
12+ months old
An occasional snack at most
One wafer, now and then
By now most teething is easier and chewing is stronger, so wafers have done their job - keep them as an occasional snack at most, and let fruit, cheese, or toast fingers fill the snack slot instead. Molars coming in still appreciate something cold to chew on.
Sources
- When to Introduce Egg, Peanut Butter & Other Common Food Allergens - AAP HealthyChildren
- Foods and Drinks to Avoid or Limit (added sugar, salt) - CDC
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 (birth-24 months: no added sugar/salt under 2) - USDA/HHS
- Teething Pain Relief: How to Soothe Your Baby's Discomfort - AAP HealthyChildren