Signs of Teething
Some common signs that your baby is teething include:
- Irritability and crankiness
- Increased drooling
- Chewing on objects
- Swollen or tender gums
- Difficulty sleeping
If your baby is displaying these symptoms, it is likely that they are teething.
Remedies to Ease Discomfort
There are several remedies that you can try to help ease your baby’s teething discomfort:
- Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a cool teething ring
- Offer your baby a chilled washcloth to chew on
- Provide your baby with age-appropriate pain relief medication recommended by your pediatrician
- Give your baby extra cuddles and comforting during this time
These remedies can help alleviate your baby’s discomfort and make the teething process more bearable for both of you.
Remember, every baby is different, so what works for one may not work for another. It’s important to be patient and provide lots of love and support to your little one during this developmental milestone.
When Do Babies Start Teething?
Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months, but each child is unique. By the age of 3, most toddlers have a full set of 20 primary teeth.
The Gradual Process of Teething
Stage 1: (0-6 months)
Initial signs include minimal drooling and chewing.
Stage 2: (6-8 months)
Teeth: Lower central incisors. Symptoms include increased drooling, irritability, and swollen gums.
Stage 3: (8-12 months)
Teeth: Upper central incisors. Symptoms are similar to Stage 2 but more noticeable.
Stage 4: (9-16 months)
Teeth: Lower and upper lateral incisors. Continued drooling, gum swelling, and irritability are common.
Stage 5: (12-18 months)
Teeth: First molars. Irritability, eating difficulties, and increased drooling are observed.
Stage 6: (16-22 months)
Teeth: Canines. Mild discomfort and swollen gums are typical symptoms.
Stage 7: (22-33 months)
Teeth: Second molars. Symptoms may include irritability, disrupted sleep, excessive drooling, and gum swelling.
Common Teething Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear 3-5 days before a tooth emerges and can last a few days after.
Recognizing Teething Symptoms
Your Baby Might:
- Chew on objects more and have tender gums
- Experience increased drooling, irritability, and red cheeks
- Develop a slight fever and disrupted sleep
When to get medical advice
Urgent advice: Contact your GP urgently if your baby:
- high body temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above
- feelings of tiredness and sleepiness
These symptoms are not associated with teething. While teething may lead to mild skin irritations, it does not cause widespread issues. Reduced fluid intake can lead to dehydration.
If you notice any concerning signs in your baby, it is important to seek advice from your GP.
Related topic
It is important to monitor your baby’s health and well-being closely. Keep track of their temperature and behavior, and seek medical advice if you have any concerns. Remember that proper hydration is crucial for your baby’s health, especially during times of illness. If you have any questions or worries, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider.
More in Caring for a new baby
Last updated: 4 February 2022
Next update: 4 February 2025
This project is supported by the Sláintecare Integration Fund 2019, funded by the Government of Ireland under Grant Agreement Number 8.
When caring for a new baby, it’s important to create a safe and nurturing environment. Make sure to baby-proof your home by covering electrical outlets, securing furniture, and keeping small objects out of reach. Establish a consistent routine for feeding, sleeping, and playtime to help your baby feel secure. Remember to always wash your hands before handling your baby to prevent the spread of germs.
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