an old wives tale was to rub southern comfort on the gums (with your finger, baby doesnt drink it) it acts like orajel only it warms and soothes the gums. for how long i do not know. i also think it helps baby go to sleep.
Go to babies r us and get the sacks that u can put fruit and thing in so they won't sallow little pieces. But I have 3 children and none of them have had a problems. So just try a little of this and a little of this!