First Tooth! Baby Teething Symptoms & Our Experience

I'll never forget the day I felt that tiny sharp edge on my baby's gum. After weeks of drooling, fussiness, and sleepless nights, there it was - the first tooth! Here's everything we learned about teething.

When Does the First Tooth Appear?

Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months old, but the range is huge:

• Some babies are born with teeth (natal teeth)
• Some don't get teeth until after their first birthday
• Average range: 4-12 months
• By age 3, most children have all 20 baby teeth

Our baby got her first tooth at 7 months. But the teething symptoms started around 4 months!

Teething Symptoms We Experienced

Here are the signs that told us teething was happening:

1. Excessive Drooling

We went through bibs like crazy. The drool was constant, and it caused a little rash around her chin and neck. We kept the area dry and applied a gentle barrier cream.

2. Biting Everything

Fingers, toys, furniture, my shoulder - nothing was safe. Counter-pressure on the gums seems to provide relief.

3. Increased Fussiness

She was irritable, especially in the evening. Nothing seemed to make her happy for long. We later learned that gum pain tends to intensify at night.

4. Swollen Gums

I could see and feel the swelling where the tooth was pushing through. Sometimes there was a bluish blister (eruption cyst) - completely normal.

5. Mild Fever

She had a slightly elevated temperature (under 100.4°F / 38°C). Note: High fever is NOT a teething symptom and needs medical attention.

6. Sleep Disruption

Just when we thought we had sleep figured out, teething hit. She woke up more frequently and had trouble settling.

7. Ear Pulling

She kept tugging at her ears. We panicked thinking it was an ear infection, but the pediatrician said it was referred pain from teething.

What Helped Soothe the Pain

Cold Teethers

Refrigerated (not frozen) teething toys were our go-to. The cold numbs the gums and provides relief. We kept 2-3 in the fridge at all times.

Gum Massage

Using a clean finger or wet washcloth, we gently rubbed her gums. She seemed to find the pressure soothing.

Cold Washcloth

We wet a clean washcloth, put it in the fridge, and let her chew on it. Simple and effective.

Distraction

Sometimes the best medicine was distraction - a new toy, a walk outside, or just extra cuddles.

Pain Reliever (When Needed)

On particularly rough nights, we used infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen (after consulting our pediatrician). This was a last resort, not routine.

Baby Tooth Order Chart

Teeth typically come in this order, though every baby is different:

Caring for Baby Teeth

When to Start Brushing

Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears! Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (rice-grain size until age 3).

How to Brush

• Brush twice a day (morning and before bed)
• Gently brush all surfaces of teeth and gums
• Make it fun - sing songs, let them hold a toothbrush too
• Don't rinse - let the fluoride do its work

Preventing Bottle Tooth Decay

• Never put baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice
• Wipe gums after nighttime feeds
• Transition to cup by age 1
• Limit juice and sugary drinks

First Dentist Visit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends:

• First visit within 6 months of the first tooth, or by age 1
• Choose a pediatric dentist if possible
• The first visit is usually just a quick look and cleaning
• It's more about getting baby comfortable with the dentist

We took our daughter at 9 months. She cried, but it was quick, and the dentist gave us great tips on oral care.

When to Call the Doctor

Teething can be uncomfortable, but these symptoms need medical attention:

• Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Rash on body (not just drool rash on face)
• Refusing to eat for more than a day
• Inconsolable crying

These are often signs of illness, not teething. When in doubt, call your pediatrician.

Final Thoughts

That first tooth is a milestone worth celebrating! Yes, teething can be rough, but it doesn't last forever. Before you know it, you'll have a toothy grin to photograph.

Hang in there, and stock up on bibs and cold teethers. You've got this.