Baby Teething Guide
Teething in babies lasts around two years and is usually completed when they are around 3 years old. The exact time of teething can vary from child to child.
⏰ When Does Teething Start?
First Teeth
Teething typically begins between 6 months and 1 year old
Pain Duration
Each tooth causes about a week of discomfort as it erupts
Complete
All baby teeth usually emerge by age 3
🔍 Teething Symptoms
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Irritability & Fussiness
New parents may become concerned as their child suddenly seems unhappy for no obvious reason. Irritability is usually the first sign of teething. The child may have trouble taking naps or falling asleep at night and may refuse to eat.
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Feeding Changes
This isn’t something to be overly concerned with because the refusal of food and drink is simply because their gums hurt. Some babies may suddenly revert to wanting breastfeeding or bottles. If feeding difficulties continue well after a tooth has erupted, ask your pediatric dentist to rule out a tongue or lip tie.
💡 Why? Softer feeding is easier on sore gums and provides comfort
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Drooling & Chewing
Children may also drool and start chewing on anything convenient. They may chew on their fingers, toys, or nearby objects to relieve gum pressure.
⚠️ Safety Alert: Be cautious about choking hazards during this time!
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Swollen, Red Gums
Parents should look at their child’s gums once they start seeing teething signs. Gums will likely be swollen and red, a sure indicator of the teething stage.
🚨 Symptoms That May Worry You
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Low-Grade Fever
Children may have a low-grade fever of 100°F to 100.4°F (37.8°C to 38°C). It typically isn’t dangerous. Over-the-counter children’s medications recommended by your pediatrician can relieve fever.
⚠️ When to See a Doctor:
Take your child to the doctor if their fever rises beyond 100.4°F (38°C). If you suspect the pain is from an abscess or chipped tooth rather than teething, contact a children’s emergency dentist the same day.
Note: This happens at a time when children start developing their own immunity around 6 months, making them more vulnerable to illness. Monitor closely to determine if warmth is from teething or actual sickness (which would include congestion, sneezing, coughing, diarrhea, or stomach issues).
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Facial Rash
The facial rash is typically caused by drooling. Just keep their face clean and it will go away.
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Blue Bumps on Gums
The child may get blue bumps on their gums, which can look like an infection to parents not familiar with teething. This is the area where the tooth will erupt and is harmless.
💚 Providing Relief During Teething
Chilled Teething Toys
Keep teething rings in the refrigerator to chill (not freezer). Never give frozen items to your child.
Gum Massage
Massage baby’s gums with your finger or a cool, wet cloth. Do this twice daily during teething.
Cup Drinking
Put breastmilk or formula in a cup. This sometimes offers more relief on gums than breast or bottle.
⛔ What to Avoid
Pediatricians and pediatric dentists warn against:
- Teething tablets or topical gels – contain harmful chemicals that cause respiratory issues
- Teething necklaces, anklets, or bracelets – pose serious choking hazards
- Teething machines – not recommended by medical professionals
🏥 Should I Take My Baby to a Doctor?
Teething can normally be managed at home. However, you should take your child to a doctor if the following occurs:
If you’d rather not guess, book a quick infant dental exam we’ll tell you whether what you’re seeing is normal teething or something that needs treatment.
🍽️ Refuses to eat for more than a couple of days
😴 Refuses to sleep consistently
🌡️ Fever rises above 100.4°F
🤧 Other symptoms appear
📈 Symptoms get worse
When to See a Pediatric Dentist
The standard recommendation is to schedule your baby’s first dental appointment about the time their first tooth erupts or before their first birthday.
What We Check:
✓ Gum health and development
✓ Tooth growth and alignment
✓ Personalized advice for managing discomfort
Involving a pediatric dentist early in your child’s teething process results in parents becoming more aware of teething symptoms and how to properly handle them. That means less stress for both you and your baby!
