Children usually get their first teeth around 6 months old, but signs of teething can start as early as 13 weeks. By 2.5 years old, most kids have all 20 baby teeth.
Signs your baby is teething
If your baby is teething, they might show:
- red cheeks
- dribbling – wipe carefully to avoid soreness
- more chewing on hands or toys
- sore gums and more crying
- nappy rash
Non-urgent advice: Contact your public health nurse or GP if your child:
- fever (over 38 degrees Celsius)
- diarrhoea
- feeling generally unwell
These signs are not directly related to teething.
Additional tips for helping a teething baby
- Give your baby a gentle massage on their cheeks to help alleviate pain.
- Offer a cold, damp washcloth for them to suck or chew on.
- Try distracting your baby with their favorite toys or books.
- Make sure your baby gets plenty of rest to help them cope with the discomfort.
- Consult with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby’s teething process.
Nappy rash and teething
Teething can lead to nappy rash and sore bottoms. Change diapers frequently and use barrier cream if needed.
During teething, babies produce more saliva, which can lead to more frequent bowel movements and cause irritation to the skin. It’s important to keep the diaper area clean and dry to prevent nappy rash. Using a barrier cream can help protect the skin from moisture and reduce the risk of irritation.
Teething and crying
If teething causes your baby to cry more, seek help from loved ones if you’re tired or stressed.
It’s important to remember that teething can be a difficult and painful time for babies. Along with increased crying, your baby may also experience irritability, drooling, and trouble sleeping. To help alleviate their discomfort, you can offer them a cold teething toy or gentle massage their gums with a clean finger.
Remember to keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as a high fever or excessive drooling, and consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns. With proper care and attention, you can help your baby navigate through this challenging phase.
Thumb-sucking and soothers
Some children find comfort in sucking their thumb, which can start around 18 months.
Breastfeeding
Continuing breastfeeding up to 12 months can help reduce tooth decay. Seek guidance for breastfeeding after 12 months.
When to start brushing your baby’s teeth
Start cleaning your baby’s gums twice daily before teeth come in, then transition to gentle toothbrushing at 6 months with water and a soft brush. Lead by example by brushing your own teeth.
As your baby’s teeth begin to come in, you can start using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. Make sure to use a toothbrush designed specifically for infants and toddlers, with soft bristles and a small head to fit their mouth comfortably.
Remember to brush your baby’s teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime. Encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste instead of swallowing it. Supervise your child while brushing to ensure they are doing it correctly and reaching all areas of their mouth.
Regular dental check-ups are important, so make sure to schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday. Your dentist can provide guidance on proper oral care and monitor the development of your child’s teeth.
First dentist appointment
Take your baby to the dentist when their first teeth come in around 6 months old for advice on dental care and teething issues.
Babies with tongue tie
Tongue tie in babies can impact tooth decay. Frenectomy might be necessary to release the frenulum causing the problem.
When to get medical advice
Urgent advice: Contact your GP urgently if your baby:
- fever
- lethargy and drowsiness
These symptoms are not linked to teething. Consult a GP if concerned.
Related topic
More in Caring for a new baby
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Teething is when a baby’s teeth come through the gums, which can vary in discomfort. Symptoms and timing differ, so providing comfort during this time is crucial.
When do babies start teething?
Tooth development begins before birth, with teething usually starting around six months but varying among children. Some teeth may emerge earlier or later. Each child’s teething journey is unique.
Consult healthcare professionals for advice on teething and dental care for your baby.
Symptoms of teething
Signs like increased chewing and drooling can suggest teething. Offering safe items to chew on and regular care can help ease discomfort.
Red cheeks. Rosy cheeks in teething babies can indicate irritation from emerging teeth. Check their temperature if the cheeks feel warm to rule out a fever.
Irritability. Fussiness, difficulty settling, and increased crying can be signs of teething. Providing love and comfort can help calm your upset baby.
Visible tooth buds. The appearance of tooth buds breaking through the gums is a clear sign of teething. Look for small bumps along the gumline and possibly a white tooth beneath the surface.
Ear rubbing. Babies may rub their ears when teething discomfort extends to the eardrum.
Sore and inflamed gums. Gum redness and swelling around the emerging tooth are common teething symptoms.
Sleep troubles. Teething can disrupt your baby’s sleep, so maintaining their bedtime routine is important.
How long does teething last?
The duration of teething discomfort varies for each child and depends on the number of teeth coming through. Watch for teething signs and offer relief as necessary.
Should I consult a dentist or doctor?
If your baby shows unusual symptoms beyond teething signs, consider seeking medical advice for peace of mind.
Causes of teething symptoms
Teething can lead to gum inflammation and tenderness, affecting each baby differently based on pain tolerance and gum health. Sensitivity from sucking may worsen, causing feeding challenges.
Tips and treatments for teething symptoms
To help your teething baby, try gum massage, teething rings, suitable chewing foods, comforting strategies, teething gels, and pain relief medication if needed.
How do teethers/teething rings work?
Teethers and teething rings provide relief by applying gentle pressure to the gums. Consider cold teething rings or chilled fruits and veggies to soothe sore gums. Watch out for choking hazards.
Can I give my baby teething biscuits?
Let your baby gnaw on safe teething items, avoiding sugary teething biscuits that may cause tooth decay. Always supervise your baby while eating to prevent choking.
What teething treatments should I avoid?
Avoid using aspirin or aspirin-containing products on your baby’s gums for teething pain relief.
Tooth Care
Introduce dental hygiene early by brushing your baby’s teeth twice daily and scheduling regular dental visits. Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste and supervise brushing.
Our products for Teething Pain in Babies
Find the right product from the CALPOL ® Family for your child. Select.
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Teething doesn’t have to be a painful experience for your little one. Find relief with products designed to ease teething discomfort and follow practical advice to help your baby through this growth stage.
Ensure accurate dosing for effective pain relief and manage post-immunization fever carefully. Explore teething tips for a smoother experience.
We’ve created a brief video with practical advice on soothing your child through teething.
How to care for a feverish child
Discover the best ways to care for your baby with a fever.
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Teething is a major developmental stage but can be uncomfortable for babies and stressful for parents. Symptoms may include:
- Irritability and fussiness
- Drooling
- Chewing and biting
- Swollen or tender gums
- Changes in appetite
- Ear rubbing
- Mild fever
Not all babies experience the same symptoms. If worried, there are natural remedies to help ease teething discomfort.
Cold Compresses
Cold compresses can help numb gums and reduce swelling. Use a chilled washcloth, teething ring, or frozen fruits to alleviate pain.
Ensure washcloths are clean and always supervise your baby with teething aids.
Massaging Gums
Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or silicone gum massager. Wash hands thoroughly and use a gentle circular motion to relieve pain.
Keep the massager clean and replace if worn out.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties. Brew, cool, dip a washcloth, and let baby chew or offer a small amount to drink (consult with a naturopath).
Clove Oil
Tooth pain can be relieved with clove oil. Mix with a carrier oil before applying to the gums or soak a cloth for the baby to chew on.
It is recommended to use clove oil in moderation and consult a healthcare professional.
Amber Teething Necklace
Amber teething necklaces are thought to reduce inflammation and soothe babies. Take safety measures when using them.
Magnesium
Magnesium is effective for easing pain. Considering magnesium supplements can help with teething symptoms.
Teething relief powder
Weleda provides a teething relief powder with natural ingredients. Consult a naturopath before using it.
Follow the instructions carefully and stop using it if any negative reactions occur.
Acupressure techniques
Acupressure techniques can alleviate teething discomfort in babies. Key points to focus on are LI4, ST6, GB20, and BL10.
Apply gentle pressure for 10-15 seconds and repeat as necessary.
How long is teething going to last?
Teething symptoms can vary in duration, lasting from a few days to a few weeks, based on the baby and the number of teeth coming in. The first teeth usually appear between 6-10 months, with the full set of baby teeth emerging by age 3. In this period, babies may experience gum sensitivity, swelling, drooling, irritability, disrupted sleep, and reduced appetite. While some babies may only feel slight discomfort, others may have more intense pain.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of natural remedies may vary. If home remedies are not effective, consulting a children’s health naturopath for personalized teething support is recommended. Additionally, if your baby has severe or persistent symptoms, seeking medical attention is essential to rule out any underlying health issues.