If your infant is having episodes of crying or experiencing unexplained discomfort, they could be going through the teething process. Dentists in Montreal offer 5 effective solutions to alleviate teething pain.

What is baby teething?

Teething usually begins around 6 months of age, with some babies starting earlier or later. The sequence of tooth eruption is as follows:

• Lower incisors, upper incisors (6-12 months)
• Lateral incisors (9-13 months)
• First molars (13-19 months)
• Canines (16-22 months)
• Second molars (25-33 months)

How long does teething last?

The teething process lasts approximately 2 years, occurring between 6 to 30 months of age and finishing around 2.5 years.

How many teeth does a baby have?

By the age of 3, most children have 20 primary teeth, with permanent teeth emerging between 6 to 12 years. Not all individuals develop wisdom teeth.

During the teething process, babies may experience symptoms such as drooling, irritability, and swollen gums. Providing them with teething toys or gently massaging their gums can help alleviate discomfort.

It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene for babies even before their first tooth emerges. Use a soft cloth to clean their gums and start brushing their teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush as soon as their first tooth appears.

What are the signs of teething?

Common signs of teething in infants include:

• Excessive drooling
• Swollen, red gums
• Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
• Irritability and increased crying
• Flushed cheeks, spit-up, looser stools
• Mild fever (above 39°C)

Symptoms typically precede tooth eruption and subside once the tooth emerges.

5 tips to relieve teething in your baby

While there’s no magical solution for teething discomfort, you can try the following remedies:

1. Gently rub the gums

Massaging the gums gently with a cold cloth

2. Give cold food

Offering frozen fruits or vegetables to chew on

3. Apply dental gel

Applying dental gels to reduce pain and inflammation

4. Use a lemon solution

Using lemon water compresses to decrease swelling

5. Buy teething toys

Providing teething toys with chewable surfaces

See a professional for baby’s teething pain

During the teething phase, consider offering fresh or cold foods to help alleviate the discomfort. Minor symptoms typically do not require medical intervention, but seek help for high fever or severe symptoms.

If you have any inquiries, reach out to the dentists at Clinique Dentaire 1935 in Montreal.

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The first baby teeth typically emerge around 6 months, with signs of teething appearing as early as 13 weeks. Common symptoms of teething include irritability, drooling, swollen gums, and a strong urge to chew on objects. You can help alleviate your baby’s discomfort by offering teething toys, cold washcloths, or gentle gum massages. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits from the start, even before the baby teeth come in.

Other signs of teething in babies may include:

• Irritability and fussiness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of appetite
• Ear pulling
• Increased sucking on fingers or toys

If your baby is experiencing discomfort from teething, you can try the following remedies:

• Give them a teething ring or cold washcloth to chew on
• Gently massage their gums with a clean finger
• Offer chilled (not frozen) foods or drinks
• Use over-the-counter teething gels or pain relievers (but consult with a healthcare provider first)

Remember to provide extra comfort and care for your teething baby during this challenging time. And don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your baby’s health.

Other natural remedies for teething discomfort

Some other natural remedies that may help alleviate teething discomfort in babies include:

• Chilled washcloth: Dampen a clean washcloth, twist it, and place it in the refrigerator. Once chilled, let your baby chew on it to help numb the gums.
• Frozen fruits: Offer small pieces of frozen fruits like bananas or strawberries for your baby to chew on. The cold temperature can help soothe sore gums.
• Cold spoon: Gently rub a cold spoon along your baby’s gums to provide relief from teething pain.
• Teething biscuits: Give your baby specially designed teething biscuits to chew on. Make sure to supervise your baby to prevent choking.

When to seek medical advice

If your baby’s teething symptoms are severe or persistent, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Signs that may indicate a more serious issue include high fever, diarrhea, or rash. Always trust your instincts as a parent and seek help if you are concerned about your baby’s health.

Conclusion

Remember that teething is a natural process that all babies go through, and it can be a challenging time for both parents and infants. By providing comfort, using safe teething remedies, and closely monitoring your baby’s symptoms, you can help them navigate this developmental milestone with care and patience.

Nappy rash and teething

Teething babies may experience nappy rash and sore bottoms. Ensure to check and change your baby’s diapers regularly. Using a barrier nappy cream and allowing some nappy-free time can help alleviate discomfort.

Teething and crying

Any factors leading to increased crying in your baby can be challenging for both you and your child. If you feel overwhelmed, seek assistance from friends or family.

Thumb-sucking and soothers

Some young children find comfort in sucking their thumb, a behavior that typically starts around 18 months of age.

Thumb-sucking is a natural reflex for babies and young children, as it provides a sense of security and comfort. However, prolonged thumb-sucking can lead to dental problems, such as misalignment of teeth or changes in the roof of the mouth.

Many parents choose to introduce soothers or pacifiers as an alternative to thumb-sucking. Soothers can be helpful in soothing a fussy baby or calming them down, but it is important to limit the use of soothers to prevent dependency.

If thumb-sucking or the use of soothers becomes a concern, it is recommended to talk to a pediatrician or dentist for advice on how to gently discourage the behavior and promote healthier habits.

Breastfeeding

Evidence suggests that breastfeeding up to 12 months of age can aid in reducing tooth decay. Consult your public health nurse or GP if you plan to breastfeed beyond this age.

In addition to reducing tooth decay, breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby. Breast milk contains antibodies that help protect infants from various illnesses and infections. It also promotes bonding between the mother and the baby.

Furthermore, breastfeeding has been linked to lower rates of obesity, diabetes, and certain types of cancer in both mothers and children. It is a natural and cost-effective way to provide nutrition to your baby.

When to start brushing your baby’s teeth

Introduce the habit of cleaning your baby’s gums twice daily with a soft washcloth or gauze before their first tooth emerges. Begin gentle toothbrushing once the first tooth appears, usually around 6 months of age.

Use water and a soft toothbrush at this stage, avoiding toothpaste. Encourage teeth brushing as part of your baby’s daily routine by being a role model.

As your baby grows, you can start using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice, on the toothbrush. Remember to supervise brushing until your child is able to do it effectively on their own, usually around age 6.

It is recommended to schedule your child’s first dental visit within six months of the eruption of the first tooth, or no later than their first birthday. This early visit can help prevent dental problems and establish good oral care habits.

First dentist appointment

When your baby starts getting their first teeth, typically around 6 months old, it’s advisable to visit the dentist. The dentist can offer guidance on oral care and address any teething concerns.

Babies with tongue tie

Some babies may have restricted tongue movement due to a condition called ‘tongue tie’, which can impact their ability to remove food debris and lead to tooth decay. A frenectomy may be necessary to resolve this issue.

When to get medical advice

Urgent advice: Contact your GP urgently if your baby:

• Fever above 38 degrees Celsius
• Weakness and drowsiness

These symptoms do not indicate teething. Teething may cause a minor rash on the baby’s chin or neck and can result in dehydration if the baby is not getting sufficient fluids.

If you have concerns about your baby’s symptoms, contact your GP. Seek advice on dental care from your dentist or public health nurse.

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Page last reviewed: 4 February 2022
Next review due: 4 February 2025

This project has received funding from the Government of Ireland’s Sláintecare Integration Fund 2019 under Grant Agreement Number 8.

When caring for a new baby, it’s important to ensure they are fed, burped, changed, and given plenty of love and attention. Making sure they are comfortable and feel secure will help them thrive and develop properly. Remember to always support their neck when holding them and never leave them unattended on raised surfaces. Lastly, don’t forget to take care of yourself as well, as a healthy and happy parent will be better able to care for their baby.

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Embark on the wonderful journey of your baby’s first tooth! Teething marks a significant milestone in your child’s growth, although it can be a challenging and occasionally painful process.

This article will assist you in identifying the common signs and symptoms of teething, enabling you to recognize when your baby is about to teethe. We will also explore various remedies for teething pain relief and offer practical tips to keep your baby comfortable and content during this transitional phase. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to consult your pediatrician.

Some common signs of teething include excessive drooling, irritability, swollen gums, and the urge to chew on objects. You may also notice that your baby’s appetite and sleeping patterns are disrupted during this time. Providing your baby with teething rings or chilled teething toys can help alleviate some of the discomfort.

Natural remedies such as applying a cold washcloth to the affected area or gently massaging your baby’s gums with clean fingers can also provide relief. Avoid using teething gels or medications without consulting your pediatrician first.

It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene even before your baby’s first tooth emerges. You can gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings to prevent bacteria buildup. Once teeth start to appear, you can begin brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste.

Remember, every baby is unique, and teething experiences can vary. Trust your instincts and seek help if you’re concerned about your baby’s teething process. Your pediatrician is always there to support you and provide guidance on how to care for your baby’s oral health.

When do babies start teething? [1,2,3]

The age at which babies begin teething varies, with most getting their first tooth between 4 and 7 months of age. By the age of 3, most toddlers have a full set of 20 primary teeth.

What order do baby teeth come in? [3]

Stage 1: (0-6 months)

During this phase, your baby’s teeth are developing beneath the gums but are not visible yet.

Symptoms: Excessive drooling and chewing may indicate teething.

Stage 2: (6-8 months)

Teeth: Lower central incisors

Symptoms: Increased drooling, irritability, and swollen gums

Stage 3: (8-12 months)

Teeth: Upper central incisors

Symptoms: Discomfort intensifies compared to previous stages

Stage 4: (9-16 months)

Teeth: Lower and upper lateral incisors

Symptoms: Persistent drooling, chewing, and potential low-grade fever

Stage 5: (12-18 months)

Teeth: First molars

Symptoms: Heightened discomfort and feeding difficulties

Stage 6: (16-22 months)

Teeth: Canines

Symptoms: Possible crankiness and inflamed gums

Stage 7: (22-33 months)

Teeth: Second molars

Symptoms: Increased irritability, sleep disturbances, and potential low-grade fever

How long do teething symptoms last?

Teething symptoms typically manifest 3-5 days before a tooth erupts and can persist for a few days afterward. Some babies may exhibit symptoms for weeks. The teething process can span up to three years, featuring cycles of discomfort alternating with calm periods.

Signs of infant teething [1,3]

Recognizing teething symptoms can aid in providing comfort for your baby. Common indications include heightened fussiness, crying, drooling, and mouthing objects to alleviate gum pain.

Acting cranky

Teething babies may display fussiness or irritability due to discomfort.

Crying

Crying is a typical response to teething pain. Babies may cry more frequently as their teeth break through the gums.

Drooling

Babies might drool more than usual during teething, which can help soothe inflamed gums.

Wanting to chew on hard things

Young infants may develop a habit of mouthing objects to relieve teething discomfort. Ensure objects are safe and clean to prevent choking hazards.

Having puffy, sore gums around lumps that feel hard to the touch

During the teething process, it is normal for gums to become swollen and tender. Avoid using harmful remedies such as rubbing alcohol on the gums and handle the situation with caution.
A slight increase in body temperature is to be expected during teething, but a high fever or diarrhea is not. Consult your child’s doctor for advice on how to manage and reduce a fever.
Teething can disrupt your baby’s sleeping patterns. Establish a calming bedtime routine and consider offering a cool washcloth or teething ring for comfort.
Some babies may experience a decrease in appetite while teething. Provide soft, chilled foods like yogurt or applesauce and ensure your baby stays hydrated with water.
Your baby may resort to biting on fingers or toys to alleviate gum discomfort. Additionally, pulling at ears or rubbing cheeks can indicate gum pain. Increased drooling can also lead to a facial rash.
Various remedies and techniques can help alleviate teething discomfort for infants. Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or offer a teething ring for relief.
Chill a teething ring or wet washcloth in the fridge to numb the gums and reduce pain. Consider offering chilled pureed fruits or vegetables under supervision.
A cold spoon can also provide relief to your baby’s gums. Place a clean spoon in the refrigerator and allow your baby to apply pressure to their gums.
If necessary, administer pain medication like Infants’ TYLENOL® under the guidance of a healthcare professional. To prevent facial rashes, keep your baby’s face clean, dry, and moisturized as advised by a pediatrician.
Avoid using certain products such as teething gels containing benzocaine, liquid-filled teething rings, and tying teething rings around the neck. Opt for safe teething toys, provide comforting baths, ensure hydration, and gently clean emerging teeth.
For personalized advice and guidance, consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns.