When babies are around 6 months old, their teeth typically start to emerge. However, signs of teething can appear as early as 13 weeks.

Most babies have a full set of 20 baby teeth by the time they reach 2.5 years of age.

Common signs of teething in babies include increased drooling, irritability, swollen gums, and biting or chewing on objects. It is important to provide your baby with appropriate teething toys or objects to help alleviate discomfort.

If your baby is experiencing symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, or rash in addition to teething symptoms, it is important to consult with a pediatrician to rule out any other illnesses.

Signs your baby is teething

If babies are teething, they may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Red cheeks
• Drooling, which should be wiped away to prevent soreness
• Chewing on fists or toys
• Sore gums and increased crying
• Development of a nappy rash

Non-urgent advice: Contact your public health nurse or GP if your child:

• High temperature
• Diarrhoea or general unwell feeling

It’s important to note that these symptoms are not directly related to teething.

How to help your teething baby

Witnessing your teething baby in discomfort can be distressing. Try distracting and comforting them to help alleviate the pain.

Tips for helping a teething baby

• Provide a cool teething ring for them to chew on
• Massage their sore gums with sugar-free teething gel
• Use mild sugar-free pain relief if necessary
• Offer cold water for them to drink
• Give healthy foods for them to chew on, like carrot sticks or apple slices
• Ensure to supervise them closely while eating to prevent choking

Teething rings

Chewing on a teething ring can help alleviate gum pain and serve as a distraction for your baby.

Remember to always use safe and clean teething rings for your baby.

Teething gels and pain relief

Sugar-free teething gels with mild anaesthetics can be purchased over the counter for babies older than 4 months.

If teething gels are not effective, consider using sugar-free paracetamol or ibuprofen under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Avoid using products meant for adults or older children to address teething discomfort in babies.

Amber teething jewellery

Avoid using amber teething jewellery as it can pose a choking hazard for babies.

Do not place any jewellery or strings around your baby’s neck.

Homeopathic teething products

Avoid using unlicensed homeopathic teething products, as they may have serious side effects like breathing difficulties, seizures, agitation, excessive sleepiness, and constipation or urination problems.

• Nelson’s homeopathic teething products are considered safe for use.

Nappy rash and teething

Teething can lead to nappy rash. It’s important to change nappies frequently and use barrier creams to alleviate discomfort.

Teething and crying

Dealing with a crying baby can be challenging. If you’re tired and stressed, don’t hesitate to seek help from friends or family.

Teething can be a common cause of a baby’s crying. When a baby is teething, their gums can be sore and tender, leading to discomfort and irritability. Some ways to help soothe a teething baby include giving them a clean, cool teething ring to chew on or gently massaging their gums with a clean finger.

It’s important to remember that teething is a temporary phase and that it will pass. In the meantime, offering comfort and support to your baby can help ease their discomfort and reduce their crying.

Thumb-sucking and soothers

Thumb-sucking in young children can be soothing and may start around 18 months of age.

It is important for parents to understand that thumb-sucking is a normal behavior for young children and can help them feel comforted and secure. However, if thumb-sucking continues past the age of 4 or 5, it may lead to dental problems and should be gently discouraged.

Using a pacifier or soother can also provide comfort to young children, but it is important to limit the use of these devices to prevent dental issues. If your child relies on a pacifier, try to gradually wean them off of it as they get older.

Overall, it is important for parents to be understanding and patient when it comes to thumb-sucking and the use of soothers, and to consult with a pediatrician or dentist if they have concerns about their child’s habits.

Breastfeeding

Continuing breastfeeding up to 12 months can help prevent tooth decay. Consult healthcare professionals for advice on extended breastfeeding.

When to start brushing your baby’s teeth

Start practicing oral hygiene before your baby’s teeth emerge by cleaning their gums with a washcloth. When their first teeth appear, begin gently brushing them.

Remember to brush your baby’s teeth twice a day with water and a soft brush, avoiding toothpaste for the time being. Lead by example when teaching dental care.

It is recommended to schedule their first dental visit by their first birthday, to monitor their oral health and ensure proper development of their teeth. During this visit, the dentist can provide guidance on how to properly care for your baby’s teeth and gums.

First dentist appointment

Visit a dentist when your baby’s first teeth appear, typically around 6 months of age, for guidance on dental care and teething issues.

It is important to establish good oral hygiene habits from a young age to prevent cavities and tooth decay. The dentist can provide valuable information on how to properly care for your baby’s teeth, including tips on brushing and flossing techniques.

In addition, the dentist can help address any teething issues your baby may be experiencing, such as gum swelling or discomfort. They can recommend safe teething remedies and techniques to help soothe your baby’s gums.

Babies with tongue tie

Babies with tongue-tie may experience dental problems due to limited tongue movement. Consult a healthcare professional if necessary.

When to get medical advice

Urgent advice: Contact your GP urgently if your baby:

• Fever over 38 degrees Celsius
• Lethargy or excessive drowsiness

It’s important to note that these symptoms are not linked to teething. If you have concerns about your baby’s symptoms, consult a doctor.

Related topic

It’s also important to seek medical advice if your baby has difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, a rash that doesn’t fade under pressure, or any other concerning symptoms. Trust your instincts and seek help if you are worried about your baby’s health.

More in Caring for a new baby

Learning to differentiate between teething symptoms and signs of illness in babies is crucial. Seek medical advice if necessary and follow the provided guidelines.

Here are some common teething symptoms to look out for:

• Irritability
• Excessive drooling
• Swollen or tender gums
• Chewing on objects
• Difficulty sleeping

If your baby is experiencing fever, diarrhea, or other symptoms unrelated to teething, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Remember to always trust your instincts and seek help if you’re unsure.

It’s important to remember that not all symptoms in babies are related to teething. If your baby is showing signs of a high fever, excessive irritability, or other concerning symptoms, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any other potential illnesses.

While teething can cause some discomfort and mild symptoms such as drooling, chewing on objects, and mild irritability, it’s essential to monitor your baby’s overall health and well-being during this time. Providing gentle massage on the gums, offering cold teethers, or using over-the-counter remedies can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with teething.

Remember to trust your instincts as a parent and seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your baby’s health. Stay informed and take care of your little one during this exciting yet challenging stage of development!

How Can We Help With Teething Discomfort?

If your teething baby is uncomfortable, try the following soothing techniques:

• Gently rub their gums
• Apply a cold washcloth
• Offer cold foods for relief

• Avoid teething rings or toys filled with gels as they can break open; instead, chill rubber teething rings in the fridge
• Acetaminophen, like Tylenol, is safe for babies 3 months and older
• Ibuprofen, like Motrin or Advil, is safe for babies 6 months and older

Things to avoid:

• Avoid teething necklaces or amber beads due to choking hazards and possible strangulation; succinic acid in these items may not relieve pain
• Avoid medications with lidocaine or benzocaine, such as teething tablets, gels, or sprays, as they can cause adverse reactions like seizures and breathing issues

Comfort Measures For Accompanying Symptoms

Many parents observe common teething symptoms in their babies. Here are tips to keep your baby comfortable during this period:

Diarrhea

If your baby experiences diarrhea, practice increased handwashing as it may be contagious; ensure they urinate every 4-6 hours to prevent dehydration and take measures to prevent diaper rashes

• Use warm water on soft cloths instead of commercial wipes
• Apply a thick layer of protective ointment during diaper changes, like A+D, Desitin, or petroleum jelly
• Give your baby air time to prevent rashes

Runny Nose and/or Drooling

To prevent chapped skin from moisture, keep your baby’s nose, mouth, chin dry and apply vaseline or aquaphor for chafing

Rash

Rashes not linked to teething are usually harmless, but those around the mouth or neck from drooling are common; contact a doctor for an evaluation

All these topics are addressed in the Kinsa app for assistance. Keep updating your baby’s symptoms and temperature for guidance.

Teething can make babies irritable and uncomfortable, with symptoms like drooling, swollen gums, and fussiness.

Consult pediatrician Aubrey Bonhivert, MD for more information on teething symptoms in infants.

Why Do Babies’ Temperatures Rise When Teething?

Research indicates that teething may lead to a slight rise in temperature in babies, but not fever.

If your baby displays signs beyond typical teething symptoms, such as persistent fever or refusal to drink, consult a healthcare provider.

Does Teething Cause Fevers?

Teething is not the cause of colds, rashes, diarrhea, or fever; consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis if these symptoms occur.

What Are Common Teething Symptoms?

Common teething symptoms include irritability, trouble sleeping, and fussiness; look into additional symptoms rather than attributing everything to teething.

In addition to the common symptoms mentioned above, some babies may also experience drooling, swollen gums, loss of appetite, and a slight increase in body temperature. It’s important to remember that every child is different, so not all babies will exhibit the same teething symptoms.

If your baby is experiencing more severe symptoms such as a high fever, diarrhea, or rash, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician to rule out any other potential causes and ensure your baby receives the necessary care.

How Can I Soothe My Teething Baby?

To alleviate teething discomfort, there are several methods you can try:

• Chew Toys: Giving your baby safe and non-toxic chew toys can help provide relief as they chew on it.
• Cold Items: Chilled teethers or a cold washcloth can numb the gums and reduce pain and inflammation.
• Gum Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help ease the discomfort of teething.

It’s important to avoid using teething necklaces as they can pose a choking hazard to babies.

For older infants, you can offer them frozen fruits like banana or strawberries in a mesh feeder, or a sippy cup of cool water to help soothe their teething pain.

What Medicines Can I Give My Teething Baby?

Teething gels and tablets may not always be effective and can contain harmful ingredients; consult a doctor before using any medication and avoid products with belladonna or benzocaine.

Invest In Your Child’s Health

Invest in your child’s overall well-being for lasting health. Seek advice from experienced pediatricians for support.

If your baby’s sleep is disrupted, consider factors beyond teething like illness. Look into additional symptoms and consult a healthcare provider as needed.

Isn’t it always “teething”?

Teething is often attributed to various issues, but be cautious when linking all symptoms to teething; visible emerging teeth are a confirmation of teething discomfort.

Don’t be fooled by “teething” symptoms that are not actually due to teething.

Between 3 and 4 months, babies undergo developmental changes that resemble teething. They become more oral, drool excessively, and may experience sleep regressions.

So when do babies start teething?

The age at which babies get their first teeth can vary. Most commonly, babies get their first teeth around 6 months of age.

How can I tell if my baby is teething?

While teething can be painless, babies may at times exhibit symptoms like sore gums, drooling, mild temperature, flushed cheeks, rashes, ear rubbing, and fussiness.

Can teething cause vomiting?

If your baby is vomiting, it’s unlikely due to teething. Consult a doctor if you have concerns.

Can teething cause fever?

Teething can lead to a slight increase in temperature, but if the fever is high, it’s likely not related to teething. Monitor your baby for signs of illness.

Remember, significant changes in sleep, feeding, or behavior are more likely indicative of illness rather than teething.

How to help a teething baby sleep better

Teething discomfort typically lasts a day when the tooth emerges. It usually does not significantly disrupt sleep.

During the night, discomfort may lessen due to lower blood pressure. Establishing a good sleep routine is essential.

So what SHOULD you look for if you suspect your baby is unwell?

Consistency in sleep and feeding patterns is key. Monitor changes in sleep or feeding behaviors for hints of discomfort or illness.

Here is what happened to me and my little Charlie (when she was around 4 months old):

Pay attention to behaviors like ear rubbing or reluctance to breastfeed. Unexplained sleep disruptions could indicate an underlying issue.

Conclusion

Trust your parental instincts. If in doubt, consult a doctor to ensure your baby’s well-being.

Take proactive steps in seeking medical advice when necessary. Prioritize your baby’s health and well-being.