I personally do agree with helping them to feel comfortable. I know what toothache feels like. There are two great homeopathic teething remedies available from chemists. They really work and have no side effects. Brauers teething relief and Hylands teething tablets (they dissolve instantly though in their mouth and are tiny)
We have had great success with both. Hope this helps.

Just in regards to teething gel our DS had an adverse reaction to it causing him to black out. I think it is a very rare reaction but have been advised to steer clear of all teething gels as it is unknown what ingredient he reacted to.