The Teething Period in Babies: Signs and Ways to Soothe Discomfort

For most babies, the first baby tooth arrives together with a period parents both look forward to and sometimes dread for the restless nights it can bring: teething. As a tooth moves through the gum toward the surface, this process plays out with different intensity in every baby. In this article we look at when teething typically starts, what signs it shows, and what can be done to soothe a baby through it.

When Does Teething Start?

The first baby tooth usually appears around 6 months of age, though starting anywhere between 3 and 14 months is considered normal. The lower front (central incisor) teeth usually come in first, followed by the upper front teeth. By around 2.5 to 3 years of age, all 20 baby teeth are expected to have come in.

What Are the Signs of Teething?

• Swelling, redness and tenderness of the gums
• Wanting to bite and chew on anything within reach
• Increased drooling
• Fussiness, crying, and temporary disruption to sleep patterns
• Mild loss of appetite

High fever, diarrhea, or rash are commonly blamed on teething; however, the evidence shows these symptoms aren't directly linked to teething, at most a slight rise in body temperature may occur. If a baby has a high fever or diarrhea, another cause should be considered and a pediatrician consulted.

What Can Be Done to Soothe a Teething Baby?

• Letting the baby chew on a teething ring or toy chilled in the refrigerator (not frozen)
• Gently massaging the gums with a clean finger
• Letting the baby chew on a cold, damp, clean cloth
• Using pain relief medication at the dose recommended by a pediatrician if discomfort is significant

Teething gels containing benzocaine are not recommended, as rare but serious side effects have been reported in infants. Teething necklaces also carry choking and strangulation risks and should not be used — these are two of the most common safety questions parents ask.

How Should Care Begin Once the First Tooth Appears?

From the moment the first tooth appears, brushing should begin twice a day with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and an age-appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste. This is also a good time to plan your child's first dental visit.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If there's a high fever, diarrhea, a rash, or a noticeable decline in your baby's general condition, see a pediatrician — these are usually not caused by teething. If you notice excessive gum swelling, bleeding, or discoloration on a tooth surface, it's worth consulting a dentist.

Two Common Questions

Does teething cause high fever? Usually not. A slight rise in temperature can occur, but a fever above 38°C (100.4°F) should be linked to another cause and discussed with a pediatrician.

Are teething necklaces safe? No, they carry choking and strangulation risks and are not recommended.

Summary

Teething is a natural developmental process that, in most babies, comes with gum tenderness, increased drooling, and mild fussiness. Simple measures like chilled teething rings and gentle gum massage can help ease discomfort. If signs like high fever or diarrhea appear, keep in mind these are more likely from another cause than from teething, and consult a pediatrician.

This article is intended for general information purposes. Consult a pediatrician or dentist for an assessment specific to your baby.