Is your usually happy baby suddenly drooling buckets, chewing on everything in sight, and waking up fussy at night? Congratulations — teething has probably begun. Those first tiny teeth pushing through sore gums can be tough on babies (and parents), but knowing what to expect makes the whole process much easier to handle.
When Does Teething Start?
Most babies get their first tooth between 4 and 7 months, though the range of normal is wide — some babies are born with a tooth, while others do not see one until after their first birthday. Teething is partly genetic, so if you or your partner teethed early or late, your baby may follow the same pattern.
Teeth usually appear in this order: bottom front teeth (central incisors) first, then top front teeth, then the teeth on either side, followed by molars. By age three, most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth.
Signs Your Baby Is Teething
Every baby is different, but common teething signs include:
- Excessive drooling — more than usual, often starting weeks before a tooth appears.
- Chewing on everything — fingers, toys, the crib rail, your shoulder.
- Swollen, tender gums — you may see or feel a small bump where the tooth is coming through.
- Fussiness and irritability — especially in the evening.
- Trouble sleeping — discomfort can interrupt naps and nighttime sleep.
- Refusing food — sore gums can make sucking uncomfortable.
- Slightly raised temperature — a mild increase is possible, but a true fever (over 100.4°F / 38°C) is NOT caused by teething and should be checked by a doctor.
Safe Teething Remedies That Actually Work
1. Cold Teethers and Washcloths
Cold numbs sore gums beautifully. Chill (do not freeze) a teething ring or wet a clean washcloth, twist it, and refrigerate it. Let your baby gnaw away. Frozen items can be too hard and may hurt delicate gums, so the refrigerator — not the freezer — is the sweet spot.
2. Gentle Gum Massage
Wash your hands well, then rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger using gentle pressure. Many babies find this deeply soothing. You can do this as often as your baby seems to want it.
3. Teething Toys with Texture
Choose age-appropriate teethers made from safe materials (BPA-free silicone is a popular choice). Different textures give your baby options — some prefer smooth, others like bumps and ridges. Avoid teethers with liquid filling that could leak, and always supervise.
4. Cold Foods (for Babies Eating Solids)
If your baby has started solids, chilled applesauce, yogurt, or a cold banana in a mesh feeder can soothe gums while doubling as a snack. Always supervise closely to prevent choking.
5. Extra Comfort and Cuddles
Sometimes the best remedy is simply you. Teething babies can be clingy, and that is okay. Extra holding, rocking, and comfort help them feel secure when their mouth hurts.
6. Pain Relief When Needed
If your baby is clearly in pain and nothing else helps, talk to your pediatrician about infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months). Always follow dosing instructions carefully based on your baby’s weight.
What to Avoid
- Teething gels with benzocaine or lidocaine — these numbing agents are not recommended for infants and can be harmful.
- Amber teething necklaces — these pose strangulation and choking risks with no proven benefit.
- Frozen hard objects — can bruise tender gums.
- Whiskey or alcohol on gums — an old folk remedy that is unsafe; never do this.
Caring for New Teeth
Dental care starts with the very first tooth. Wipe it gently with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. Once more teeth arrive, switch to a small soft toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth appearing.
Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice — the sugars pool around new teeth and cause decay, sometimes called “baby bottle tooth decay.”
When to Call the Pediatrician
Teething does not cause high fever, diarrhea, or rash. If your baby has a true fever, seems unusually ill, has a rash, or you are worried for any reason, call your pediatrician. It is always better to check.
This Phase Will Pass
Teething can feel endless when you are in the middle of it, but each tooth that arrives is a milestone worth celebrating. With cold teethers, gentle comfort, and a little patience, you and your baby will get through it together. For more guidance on baby milestones, health, and daily care, visit Healthy Baby Guide — we are with you for every tooth, step, and giggle along the way.
