Baby Teething Guide
Teething is a natural process every baby goes through. Knowing the symptoms helps you stay calm and respond effectively.
What is Teething?
Teething is when teeth break through the gums for the first time. During this process, babies experience pain and discomfort.
Teething Timeline
Individual timing varies greatly, but generally:
- 4-7 months: Lower central incisors (first to appear)
- 8-12 months: Upper central incisors
- 9-16 months: Lateral incisors (4 teeth)
- 13-19 months: First molars
- 16-23 months: Canines
- 23-33 months: Second molars
- By age 3: All 20 baby teeth complete
Teething Symptoms
Common Symptoms
- Excessive drooling: The most typical sign
- Chewing on everything: Hands, toys, anything
- Swollen, red gums: Visible inflammation
- Fussiness and irritability: More sensitive than usual
- Sleep disturbances: Waking frequently at night
- Decreased appetite: Reluctant to eat
- Ear pulling: Pain radiates to the ears
Symptoms NOT Related to Teething
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C): Likely another cause
- Severe diarrhea: Needs medical attention
- Vomiting: Not related to teething
- If these occur, see your pediatrician
Teething Pain Relief
Cold Items
- Refrigerated teethers: Refrigerate, don't freeze
- Cold spoon: Press gently against gums
- Chilled washcloth: Dampen and refrigerate
- Cold baby food: Chilled fruit puree
Things to Chew
- Teethers: Various shapes and textures
- Teething crackers: Dissolvable crackers (6+ months)
- Silicone finger brush: Doubles as gum massager
- Always ensure items are large enough to prevent choking
Gum Massage
- Use a clean finger to massage gently
- Rub gums in a circular motion
- Continue if baby enjoys it
- Don't force it if baby refuses
Pain Medication (If Needed)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): After consulting doctor
- Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin): For 6+ months, after consulting doctor
- Always verify correct dosage
- Don't use frequently
Choosing a Teether
By Material
- Silicone: Soft, safe, easy to clean
- Natural rubber: Natural material, watch for allergies
- Wood: Hard, check coating safety
- Always verify BPA-free
By Shape
- Ring shape: Easy to grip
- Stick shape: Reaches back molars
- Finger brush style: Massage and cleaning combined
- Water-filled teethers: Can be refrigerated
Sleep During Teething
- Gum massage before bedtime
- Pain reliever 30 minutes before bed (if needed)
- When baby wakes, soothe and resettle
- Try not to disrupt established sleep habits
- This phase will pass
Feeding During Teething
- Breastfeeding: Baby may bite
- If bitten, firmly say "No" and pause briefly
- Solid foods: Cold foods can help
- Good time to practice with a sippy cup
Things to Avoid
- Teething gels: Benzocaine carries FDA warnings
- Amber necklaces: Choking and strangulation risk
- Frozen teethers: Too hard, can damage gums
- Small pieces: Choking hazard
FDA Warning: Avoid teething products containing benzocaine (like Orajel).
They can cause a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia.
Starting Dental Care
- Begin as soon as first tooth appears
- Clean with gauze or finger brush
- Fluoride toothpaste: Rice grain size (until age 3)
- First dentist visit: Recommended by first birthday
When to See a Doctor
Contact your pediatrician if your baby has:
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Persistent diarrhea or vomiting
- Rash that won't go away
- Symptoms lasting more than a few days
- Refusing to eat or drink for extended periods
Summary
Teething is hard for both babies and parents. But it's a normal part of growing up that every baby goes through.
Know the symptoms, stay calm, and use these relief methods. You and your baby will get through this!
Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP),
American Dental Association (ADA), Mayo Clinic