how do you deal with random (not intentional) biting?

[toughcookie]

my 16 month old is in a biting phase.  he doesn't bite intentionally - just when he snuggles into me or his stuffed lovey.  but today he bit me on the thigh as he was burying his head in my lap and i screamed in pain.  he cried for 10 minutes, hysterically. 

he's got 4 teeth coming through all at once, and he's very mouthy in general right now.

how should i deal with this, to discourage it but do so gently? 

thanks....

[pbjmama]

Give him some things that are okay to bite! Blankets, chewy tubes, etc.