Is Your Baby Teething? Signs Parents Should Watch For

Watching your baby reach milestones is one of the most exciting parts of parenthood. From the first smile to the first steps, these milestones are moments to cherish. But there's another significant milestone that often goes unnoticed until it happens- teething. While it may not be celebrated with the same enthusiasm as a baby's first word or crawl, teething is an inevitable part of your baby's growth.

Understanding the signs of teething, knowing what to expect, and being prepared to ease your baby’s discomfort will make this experience much smoother for both of you.

When Does Teething Begin?

Babies typically start teething around 4 to 7 months of age, though the timing can vary. Genetics play a large role in when your baby gets their first tooth. Some babies may sprout their first tooth as early as 3 months, while others may not get their first tooth until they are over a year old. This variance is completely normal, and no cause for concern. The two central incisors — the front teeth- usually emerge first, either in the upper or lower gum. These are followed by the opposite front teeth, the molars, and then the canines or eye teeth.

By the age of 3, most children will have all 20 of their primary teeth. These baby teeth will eventually be replaced by 32 permanent teeth by the time they reach their teenage years.

What Are the Signs of Teething?

Teething can be uncomfortable for your baby, but it’s important to recognize the signs so you can respond appropriately. While the exact symptoms may vary from one baby to another, the following are some common signs that your baby may be cutting their first teeth:

Increased Drooling

One of the first signs of teething is excessive drooling. As your baby’s gums swell in preparation for a new tooth, they may begin drooling more than usual.

Chewing and Biting

Teething babies often seek relief by chewing on anything they can find, from toys to their own fingers. This helps soothe the pressure in their gums.

Irritability

The discomfort of teething can make your baby fussy or irritable. They may cry more than usual, especially when trying to sleep or eat.

Slight Fever

It’s common for babies to run a mild fever while teething. If your baby’s temperature rises above 101°F (38.3°C), however, it may be a sign of an illness rather than teething.

Tender, Swollen Gums

As teeth push through the gums, they can become red, swollen, and tender. Your baby may rub their gums with their hands or chew on hard objects to ease the discomfort.

Teething doesn’t always cause distress. Some babies sail through the process without much trouble, while others may experience significant discomfort. Either way, it’s important to watch for these signs so you can care for your baby during this phase.

What Symptoms Are NOT Related to Teething?

While teething can cause discomfort, there are some symptoms that should not be attributed to it. These include:

• High Fever: A fever over 101°F (38.3°C) is unlikely to be caused by teething and could indicate an infection or illness.
• Rash: A rash on the body, face, or near the mouth may be a sign of something other than teething.
• Diarrhea or Vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms are not related to teething and should prompt a call to your pediatrician.
• Cough or Congestion: Respiratory issues such as coughing or nasal congestion are signs of a cold or another illness, not teething.

If your baby develops any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your pediatrician for further guidance.

Teething Timeline: When Will Teeth Appear?

The timing of your baby’s tooth eruption follows a general pattern, but there can be plenty of variation. Here's a guideline for when you can expect your baby’s teeth to come in:

Lower Teeth:

- Central Incisor: 6–10 months

- Lateral Incisor: 10–16 months

- Canine (Cuspid): 17–23 months

- First Molar: 14–18 months

- Second Molar: 23–31 months

Upper Teeth:

- Central Incisor: 8–12 months

- Lateral Incisor: 9–13 months

- Canine (Cuspid): 16–22 months

- First Molar: 13–19 months

- Second Molar: 25–33 months

Every child is different, and the order of tooth eruption may differ slightly, but this general timeline can help parents understand what to expect.

Easing Teething Discomfort: Tips for Parents

Teething can be a challenging time, but there are several ways to ease your baby’s discomfort. Keep in mind that while some babies experience only minor irritation, others may feel more significant pain. Here are some effective methods to soothe your teething baby:

Gentle Gum Massage

Using a clean finger, gently massage your baby’s gums. This can provide some relief by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation.

Teething Rings

A cool teething ring can be a great option for soothing sore gums. Make sure to choose one made from firm rubber, as softer rings may be too squishy to provide relief. Avoid freezing teething rings, as they can become too hard and potentially cause harm to your baby’s delicate gums.

Cold Compress

A cool compress can also provide some comfort. Try placing a spoon in the refrigerator (not the freezer) and applying it to your baby’s gums. Just be sure to avoid using metal spoons if your baby has any teeth already, as they could potentially chip the tooth.

When to Call the Paediatrician

While teething can cause discomfort, it should not result in serious illness. If your baby develops a fever higher than 101°F (38.3°C) or exhibits symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, consult your paediatrician. If the teething symptoms seem unusually severe or persist for a prolonged period, don’t hesitate to reach out for medical advice.

When Should You Take Your Baby to the Dentist?

It’s recommended that your baby see a dentist within 6 months of their first tooth appearing, or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Pediatric dentists are trained to care for infants and young children, and you can find one through the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s website.

Cleaning Your Baby’s New Teeth

As soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts, it’s important to start a cleaning routine. Use a soft, child-sized toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. Avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle, as milk can pool around their teeth and encourage tooth decay.

What to Avoid

It’s important to avoid certain practices when soothing teething discomfort. For instance, never use over-the-counter teething gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine, as they can be harmful to babies and cause serious health risks. Amber teething necklaces, while popular, can pose choking hazards and should be avoided. Always consult your pediatrician before trying any new methods for relieving teething pain.

Teething is a challenging but inevitable phase of your baby’s development. While it can cause discomfort and irritability, understanding the signs and knowing how to ease the pain can help both you and your baby navigate this milestone with less stress.

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry