Your Guide to Teething

Teething is a milestone every baby goes through, and it can also be a challenging phase—for both baby and parents. And while we know this, it's not uncommon to find yourself wondering what's normal and how to help.

What is Teething?

When we talk about teething, we are referring to the somewhat lengthy period of time when a baby's first teeth, or "baby" teeth, begin to break through their gums. Most babies go through this phase between 4 and 24 months old.

Your baby will eventually have 20 primary teeth. These will serve them until permanent teeth replace them, usually starting around age six.

And while some lucky little ones sail through without much fuss, others may experience significant discomfort, disruptions in sleep, and swollen gums.

When Does Teething Start and End?

While every baby is unique (even siblings can have very different teething timelines, and some children's teeth emerge in a slightly different order), here's a general approximation for teething milestones.

3-6 Months: Teething begins, though it might not be visible at this stage since it takes some time before the first tooth appears.
6-10 Months: The lower central incisors (bottom two teeth) typically emerge first.
8-12 Months: The upper central incisors (top two teeth).
9-13 Months: The upper lateral incisors (next to the central teeth).
10-16 Months: The lower lateral incisors.
13-19 Months: The first molars (both upper and lower back teeth).
16-23 Months: The sharp canine teeth, also known as cuspids.
23-33 Months: Finally, the second molars.

By the age of two to three, your child should have a full set of 20 teeth.

Symptoms of Teething

Babies may show a variety of symptoms during teething. Keep an eye out for these common signs.

Increased drooling (you may notice a lot of wet bibs!).
Fussiness or irritability.
Swollen or red gums around the emerging tooth.
Chewing or biting on objects.
Changes in eating patterns, such as refusing food or difficulty feeding.
Trouble sleeping during naps or at night.
Pulling on ears, which may be a reaction to gum pain (though consult a doctor as this can also indicate an ear infection).

What Teething Shouldn't Cause

It's important to note that while teething may cause mild discomfort, it should not lead to fever, diarrhea, or rashes. If your baby has these symptoms, consult a pediatrician, as something else may be going on.

Remedies for Teething Pain

Making your baby more comfortable during teething can feel like a guessing game, but here are some trusted remedies to try:

Massage Their Gums

Use a clean finger or a soft, cold washcloth to gently rub your baby's gums. This pressure can offer temporary relief.

Teething Toys

Teething toys are a safe and effective way for your baby to soothe their gums. Many toys can be refrigerated (not frozen) to provide extra cooling relief. Look for BPA-free options that are easy to clean.

Cold

Offer your baby a chilled (refrigerated, not frozen) washcloth or a silicone teething ring. If your baby is eating solids, soft cold foods like yogurt or applesauce can be great options. Just make sure to avoid choking hazards.

Teething Biscuits

For older babies, sugar-free teething biscuits are a nice distraction and help with the chewing they crave during teething.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

If your baby feels especially uncomfortable and other remedies don't work, consult your pediatrician or pediatric dentist about giving infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen in age-appropriate dosages.

When to See a Dentist or Pediatrician

It's a good idea to schedule your baby's first dental visit by their first birthday or when the first tooth emerges. Regular dental checkups will help you keep tabs on your child's oral health and make sure their teeth are coming in as expected.

You should also consult a professional if:

Your baby shows no signs of teething by 15 months.
Teething symptoms persist for more than a week without a tooth erupting.
You observe unusual changes like severe swelling, bleeding gums, a high or persistent fever, or pus.