Welcome to the exciting adventure of your little one’s first tooth! Teething is a significant milestone in your baby’s growth, although it can present challenges and discomfort at times.

This guide will assist you in identifying the signs and symptoms of teething, enabling you to recognize when your baby is on the verge of getting a new tooth. Additionally, we will discuss remedies for teething pain relief and offer tips to ensure your baby remains content and happy. If you have any inquiries or concerns, please consult your pediatrician.

Teething Tips:

• Offer a clean, chilled teething ring or washcloth for your baby to chew on.
• Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger to provide relief.
• Use a small dose of children’s pain reliever if your baby is in discomfort, following the recommended dosage.
• Keep a bib handy to catch excess drool and prevent irritation on the baby’s skin.
• Stay patient and comforting during this challenging time for your little one.

Remember, every baby is unique, and their teething experience may vary. Consult with your pediatrician if you have concerns or if your baby is experiencing severe symptoms. With proper care and attention, you can help your baby through the teething process smoothly.

Recognizing Teething Symptoms

Being able to recognize teething symptoms allows you to provide essential care and comfort for your baby. Keep an eye out for common indicators such as:

Fussy Behavior

Due to discomfort, a teething baby may become irritable or fussy.

Crying

As the teeth push through the gums, crying may increase.

Drooling

Increased drooling can help alleviate inflamed gums.

Chewing

To relieve gum pressure, babies may chew on objects.

Gum Swelling

As teeth emerge, the gums may become sore and swollen.

Fever

Although a low-grade fever is common during teething, a high fever or diarrhea should be cause for concern.

Sleep Disturbances

Teething can disrupt sleep patterns, making it challenging for babies to fall or stay asleep.

Appetite Changes

During teething, some babies may lose their appetite or prefer softer foods for chewing.

Other Symptoms

Signs of teething discomfort may also include biting, ear pulling, cheek rubbing, and facial rash.

Infant Teething Relief

There are various remedies and tips to help ease the teething process for your baby:

Gum Massage

Provide relief by gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger or offering a teething ring.

Cool Relief

Numb the gums by chilling a teething ring or a wet washcloth in the refrigerator.

Chilled Foods

Soothe gum discomfort by offering chilled pureed fruits or vegetables.

Cold Spoon

Relief can be found by allowing your baby to press a cool spoon against their gums.

Pain Medicine

Consult your pediatrician for pain relief options like acetaminophen to alleviate teething pain.

Skin Care

To prevent facial rash from drooling, ensure your baby’s face stays clean and dry.

Avoid using teething gels or liquids for babies under 2 years of age that contain benzocaine, as it may lead to severe side effects.

Avoid using liquid-filled teething rings, as they may burst and pose a choking hazard.

Avoid tying teething rings around a baby’s neck to prevent potential choking hazards.

Avoid giving very hard objects to chew on to prevent gum and tooth damage.

Avoid using pacifiers with liquid inserts, as they may burst and are not recommended for teething.

Additional tips for soothing a teething infant

Invest in a variety of safe teething toys to distract and relieve pressure on gums.

A warm bath can help soothe your baby and aid in relaxation, indirectly easing teething pain.

Provide comfort and cuddles to help your baby feel secure and less distressed.

Ensure your baby remains well-hydrated to flush away excess saliva and maintain oral hygiene.

Gently clean any emerging teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water.

If you have any questions, talk to your pediatrician

If you are worried about teething symptoms, seek guidance from your pediatrician.

Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, but remember, it is temporary. There are ways to make it more manageable.

Is My Baby Really Teething or Is It Something Else?

Around 6 months old, start observing signs of teething in your baby: drooling, chewing, fussiness, and ear pulling.

While teething generally begins around 7 months of age, every baby is different.

If in doubt, consult your pediatrician or pediatric dentist.

Some additional signs of teething to look out for include swollen gums, irritability, disrupted sleep, and a slight increase in body temperature.

Offer your baby teething toys or a clean, cold washcloth to chew on to help alleviate discomfort.

Remember that teething is a normal part of development and, with proper care and attention, your baby will get through it just fine.

How to Help Your Baby (and Yourself) Through Teething

Mesh Teether with Favorite Frozen Fruit or Veggie Puree

For soothing relief, use a mesh teether filled with frozen fruit or vegetable puree.

Breastmilk or Formula Popsicles

Frozen breastmilk or formula popsicles can offer cooling relief without introducing new substances.

Teething Toys

Teething Toys“>

Opt for a safe teething toy made from a single piece of rubber or silicone.

Frozen Damp Washcloth or Pacifier

Use a frozen, damp washcloth or pacifier for effective relief.

Teething Gels

Consider a teething gel with natural ingredients for milder relief.

Avoid products containing harmful chemicals.

Medication

If all else fails, Infant Tylenol or Ibuprofen can provide relief, but always consult your pediatrician first.

What About Celery and Green Onions for Teething?

Some parents find relief for teething pain with celery and green onions, but there are risks involved.

Celery and green onions can help alleviate discomfort but may pose choking hazards.

Always Remember That This is Temporary

Remember, teething is temporary, and there are strategies to help ease the process for everyone.

Keep an Eye on Your Baby’s Hydration During Teething

Monitor your child’s hydration during teething, as gum pain may result in decreased eating and drinking.

Check for signs of dehydration by monitoring wet diapers.

If concerned, seek advice from your pediatrician.

Teething is a natural part of your baby’s growth, and although challenging, it signifies progress.

Typically, babies begin showing signs of teething around 13 weeks and may not get their first tooth until around 6 months of age.

By the age of 2 and a half years, most babies will have all of their 20 baby teeth.

Signs your baby is teething

Signs of teething in your baby may include red cheeks and increased drooling.

• Babies may chew on their fists or toys more than usual
• They might have sore and tender gums, cry more, or develop a nappy rash

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

• High temperature (over 38 degrees Celsius), diarrhea, or signs of illness

These symptoms are not attributed to teething.

Teething symptoms

Teething can cause a variety of symptoms in babies, including:

• Excessive drooling
• Swollen, red gums
• Irritability and fussiness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of appetite

Alternative teething remedies

Some parents find alternative remedies helpful in soothing a teething baby:

• Camomile tea: a diluted amount can be given to help relax and soothe an upset stomach
• Teething biscuits: specially designed biscuits can provide relief for babies who are old enough to eat solid foods
• Natural teething toys: wooden or silicone teething toys can be a safe and natural way for babies to chew and soothe their gums
• Amber teething necklaces: some parents believe that amber has natural pain-relieving properties when worn against the skin

Always consult with your pediatrician before trying any alternative remedies to ensure they are safe for your baby.

Nappy rash and teething

Babies teething may develop a nappy rash – check and change their nappies frequently.

Use barrier nappy cream and allow the baby to go nappy-free for soothing relief.

Additional tips:

• Keep the nappy area clean and dry by gently patting the skin instead of rubbing.
• Avoid using scented wipes or soaps that may irritate the baby’s delicate skin.
• Try giving the baby a warm bath with oatmeal or baking soda to help soothe irritated skin.
• Avoid tight-fitting nappies and opt for breathable, loose-fitting ones to help reduce friction and irritation.
• If the rash persists or worsens, consult a healthcare provider for further advice and treatment.

Teething and crying

If you feel overwhelmed when your baby is in distress, seek help. Friends or family can offer support during challenging times.

It is common for babies to experience discomfort and pain while teething. Some signs that your baby may be teething include increased drooling, swollen gums, and irritability. Crying is a natural response to teething pain, and it is important to provide comfort to your baby during this time.

There are several ways to help alleviate teething pain, such as giving your baby a cold teething ring to chew on or gently massaging their gums with a clean finger. You can also talk to your pediatrician about safe pain relief options for your baby.

Remember, it is normal for babies to cry during the teething process, but if you feel overwhelmed or unsure of how to help your baby, don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a healthcare provider.

Thumb-sucking and soothers

Thumb-sucking can be a comforting habit for some children, typically starting around 18 months.

Breastfeeding

Studies indicate that breastfeeding for up to a year can help prevent tooth decay. It is recommended to seek advice from healthcare professionals if considering continuing breastfeeding beyond 12 months.

When to start brushing your baby’s teeth

Before your baby’s teeth come in, gently clean their gums twice a day with a soft washcloth. When the first tooth appears around 6 months, start introducing gentle toothbrushing twice daily.

Use water and a soft brush for brushing your baby’s teeth – avoid using toothpaste at this stage. Make brushing a part of your daily routine.

Lead by example and show your baby how to brush their teeth.

First dentist appointment

Make sure to schedule a visit to the dentist when your baby’s first teeth start coming in at around 6 months. Dentists can provide guidance on proper oral care and offer solutions for teething discomfort.

Babies with tongue tie

In some cases, ‘tongue tie’ may limit tongue movement in babies, leading to oral health issues. In severe instances, a frenectomy procedure may be necessary.

When to get medical advice

Urgent advice: Contact your GP urgently if your baby:

• has a temperature over 38 degrees Celsius or appears lethargic

Teething can sometimes cause mild rashes on the chin or neck, but not a widespread rash. Signs of dehydration include decreased fluid intake and fewer wet diapers.

If you have concerns about your baby’s symptoms, contact your GP. For advice on dental care, consult a dentist or a health nurse.

Related topic

It’s important to monitor your baby’s temperature regularly when they are teething. If the temperature remains high or if your baby appears unwell, seek medical advice promptly. Remember to keep your baby hydrated and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

More in Caring for a new baby

Last reviewed on: 4 February 2022
Next review scheduled for: 4 February 2025

This project is funded by the Government of Ireland’s Sláintecare Integration Fund 2019 under Grant Agreement Number 8.

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