Children usually start teething around 6 months of age, with most baby teeth appearing by 2.5 years old.

Teething can be a tough time for both babies and parents. Some common signs of teething include increased drooling, crankiness, and biting on objects. Providing your baby with teething toys or a cool washcloth to chew on can help alleviate some of the discomfort.

Signs of Teething

If your baby is teething, they may:

• Have red cheeks
• Drool excessively
• Chew on objects more
• Experience sore gums and increased fussiness

Warning Signs

• Fever over 38°C
• Diarrhoea
• General unwell feeling

Note: These symptoms are not caused by teething.

Managing Teething Discomfort

Here are ways to help your baby during teething:

Using Teething Rings and Gels

• Give a chilled teething ring
• Massage gums with sugar-free gel
• Offer pain relief as needed
• Supervise chewing on cold items

Additional Tips

Chewing on cool objects can soothe gums. Keep teething rings clean, avoid choking hazards, and never put them around the neck.

Consult a pharmacist for teething gels and always follow dosage instructions.

Avoid using adult products for teething, and be cautious with homeopathic remedies.

Teething Care and Nappy Rash

Change nappies frequently when your baby is teething to prevent rashes. Use nappy cream for relief or let your baby go nappy-free for short periods.

Additionally, it’s important to keep your baby’s skin clean and dry during teething. Use a gentle cleanser and pat the skin dry instead of rubbing. Avoid using wipes with harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin.

You can also try giving your baby a cool teething toy to chew on, as the pressure can help alleviate teething discomfort. Make sure the toy is safe and washable to prevent any potential germs from entering your baby’s mouth.

Seeking Help and Dental Care

If your baby’s teething discomfort is overwhelming, ask for support from loved ones. Start dental check-ups around 6 months old to address teething concerns.

Thumb Sucking and Breastfeeding

Some babies may start thumb sucking for comfort during teething, while extended breastfeeding can benefit oral health. It is important to note that thumb sucking is a common behavior in infants and can provide comfort and self-soothing. However, if thumb sucking persists beyond the toddler years, it may lead to dental and speech issues. On the other hand, breastfeeding has been shown to promote healthy jaw development and reduce the risk of malocclusion. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on both thumb sucking and breastfeeding practices to ensure the overall health and well-being of your child.

Gum Care and Dental Visits

Begin cleaning gums twice a day and transition to gentle toothbrushing when teeth appear. Lead by example and demonstrate good oral hygiene habits to your child.

Schedule a dental appointment by 6 months old for guidance on teething and dental care.

Tongue-Tie Concerns and Dehydration

Signs of Concern

• Fever over 38°C
• Lethargy or excessive drowsiness

If your baby shows signs of dehydration or alarming symptoms, contact a GP for advice.

Additional Information:

Other signs of dehydration may include dry mouth, sunken fontanelle, no tears when crying, and dark yellow urine. It’s important to monitor your baby’s fluid intake and seek medical help if you have any concerns about their hydration levels. In cases of severe dehydration, hospitalization may be necessary for intravenous fluids.

Next Steps and Contact Information

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

Funded by the Government of Ireland’s Sláintecare Integration Fund 2019.

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Kids Dental

Explore answers to common questions about teething discomfort in children.

Medication: Consult healthcare professionals for guidance on safe pain relief options if home remedies are ineffective.

Are Teething Necklaces Safe?

Amber teething products lack scientific backing for pain relief and may pose risks of choking and strangling. Supervise their use at all times.

Can Breastfeeding Continue?

Infants may seek comfort through nursing during teething. Be mindful of potential biting and provide relief through gentle gum massage if discomfort arises.

What Order Do Baby Teeth Come In?

Teeth typically erupt in pairs, starting with lower middle teeth at 6 months. Each child’s tooth development is unique, with variations in timing.

Do Teething Babies Have Reduced Appetite?

Swollen gums may affect eating habits in some infants, while others may eat more frequently seeking relief. Consult a paediatrician if concerns persist.

Do Teething Babies Have More Bowel Movements?

Teething does not directly impact bowel movements, but dietary changes during this time may affect stool frequency. Address persistent diarrhoea promptly.

When Should Dental Care Begin?

Start oral hygiene routines as soon as teeth appear to prevent decay. Use water and consult a dentist before introducing fluoride toothpaste.

Dental Check-Ups

Schedule a dental visit by age 2 for guidance on oral health and tooth development. Regular check-ups ensure a healthy smile for your child.

Teething Pain Levels

Pain intensity varies during teething, with molars often causing more discomfort. The first teeth to emerge can be particularly painful for children.

Baby Teeth Eruption Order

While the sequence of baby teeth eruption can differ, a common pattern includes incisors, molars, and canines. Second molars typically appear by age 2.

Teething Symptoms

Watch for signs like swollen gums, irritability, and drooling before tooth eruption. Encourage safe gum-pressure relief techniques for comfort.

Teething Relief Strategies

Massage gums gently and offer safe objects for chewing to alleviate teething discomfort. Regular dental visits provide guidance on managing teething symptoms.

Top Teething Tips:

• Use a clean finger or wet gauze to gently massage your baby’s gums.
• Offer a chilled teething ring or clean, wet washcloth for your baby to chew on.
• Avoid teething biscuits or cookies, as they can lead to tooth decay.

Infants have 20 primary teeth that start appearing around 6 months and fall out as permanent teeth grow in. Understanding the timing of tooth eruption can aid in baby dental care.

Key Points to Remember:

• Primary teeth, also known as baby teeth, are important for chewing, speaking, and keeping a space for permanent teeth.
• Most children have a full set of baby teeth by age 3.
• Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring tooth development and ensuring good oral health.

When Teething Begins

Teething typically starts when babies grow their first teeth. While each child’s development is unique, being aware of common signs and symptoms can help manage teething challenges.

• Most babies experience teething pain between 4 and 12 months of age
• Teething discomfort usually lasts from 1 week to 4 months
• Common symptoms include restlessness, swollen gums, and fussiness
• Consulted parents describe teething pain as ‘moderate’

Online survey data collected from parents with teething infants under 2 years old in multiple countries.

Teething Charts and Timelines

Use teething charts to anticipate when your child’s teeth will erupt and when they may be lost. Understanding this process can better prepare you for their teething needs.

Baby Teeth Vs. Permanent Teeth

Baby teeth have unique characteristics and play a crucial role in oral development. Protecting them helps maintain proper speech, chewing, and space for permanent teeth.