When do babies start teething. What are the signs and symptoms of teething. How to soothe a teething baby. Which treatments should be avoided for teething babies. Are teething necklaces safe for babies. What teething medicines are recommended. How to care for baby’s new teeth.

Understanding Baby Teething: Process and Timeline

Teething, also known as odontiasis, is a natural process where a baby’s teeth begin to emerge through the gum line. While most infants start teething between 4 and 7 months of age, some may begin earlier or later. It’s important to note that every baby’s teething timeline can be unique, and there’s usually no cause for concern if your child’s teeth come in on a different schedule.

The typical order of tooth eruption is as follows:

1. Lower front two teeth (6-10 months)
2. Upper front two teeth and adjacent teeth (8-13 months)
3. Teeth on either side of the bottom front teeth
4. First molars (10-16 months)
5. Teeth in front of the first molars
6. Back molars

By the age of 3, most children will have a full set of 20 “baby teeth” or primary teeth.

Recognizing Teething Symptoms in Two-Month-Old Babies

While it’s relatively uncommon for babies to start teething at two months, it’s not impossible. If your two-month-old is showing signs of teething, you may observe the following symptoms:

• Swollen, tender gums
• Increased fussiness and crying
• Slightly elevated temperature (below 101°F)
• Desire to chew on hard objects
• Excessive drooling
• Facial rash due to drooling
• Coughing
• Ear pulling or cheek rubbing
• Bringing hands to mouth frequently
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

Is teething always accompanied by fever? Not necessarily. While a slight temperature increase is common, high fever is not a typical teething symptom. If your baby develops a fever above 101°F, experiences diarrhea, vomiting, body rashes, or shows signs of respiratory illness, it’s crucial to consult your pediatrician as these are not normal teething symptoms.

Effective Remedies to Soothe a Teething Baby

Every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Here are some safe and effective remedies to help soothe your teething baby:

• Offer cold items: A chilled pacifier, spoon, clean wet washcloth, or solid (not liquid) refrigerated teething toy can provide relief.
• Provide teething crackers: For babies older than 6-9 months, hard, unsweetened teething crackers can be helpful.
• Offer cool water: If your baby is over 6 months, you can offer cool water from a sippy cup.
• Gum massage: Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger to alleviate discomfort.
• Pre-feeding gum massage: For nursing mothers, massaging the baby’s gums with cool water before feeding can prevent nipple biting.

Can teething toys be frozen? While some parents freeze teething toys, experts caution that extremely cold items might hurt your baby’s mouth. Refrigerated teething toys are generally considered safer.

Teething Treatments to Avoid: Ensuring Your Baby’s Safety

While seeking relief for your teething baby is natural, it’s crucial to avoid certain treatments that may pose risks:

• Teethers filled with liquid that can tear and spill
• Teething aids made of breakable materials that could lead to choking
• Frozen solid teethers that may be too hard on your baby’s gums
• Teething products containing harmful substances like lead

Are over-the-counter teething gels safe for babies? The FDA advises against using over-the-counter teething gels and liquids containing benzocaine for children under 2 years old due to potential serious side effects.

The Controversy Surrounding Teething Necklaces

Teething necklaces have gained popularity in recent years, but are they safe? Child health experts generally do not recommend teething necklaces due to the risk of strangulation and choking. If you choose to use one, follow these safety precautions:

• Place it on the baby’s wrist or ankle, never around the neck
• Always supervise your baby when wearing it
• Remove it when the baby is unsupervised, even for short periods

Do amber teething necklaces really work? While some claim that amber teething necklaces release a natural pain reliever when heated, this has not been scientifically proven, and the use of such necklaces is not recommended by medical professionals.

Safe Medication Options for Teething Babies

When it comes to medication for teething babies, it’s essential to exercise caution and consult with your pediatrician. Here are some guidelines:

• Avoid teething gels that numb the gums, as they can affect swallowing and may have side effects
• A small dose of children’s acetaminophen may be helpful, but always consult your doctor first
• Do not use ibuprofen for infants under 6 months old
• Always follow the doctor’s instructions precisely when administering any medication

Is it safe to use homeopathic teething remedies? The FDA has warned against the use of homeopathic teething tablets and gels, as some may contain potentially harmful ingredients. Always consult your pediatrician before using any teething remedies.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene in Teething Babies

Good oral hygiene is crucial even before your baby’s first tooth appears. Here’s how to care for your baby’s mouth:

• Before teeth emerge: Clean your baby’s gums with a wet washcloth or piece of gauze at least once daily
• After teeth appear: Continue cleaning your baby’s mouth the same way, paying special attention to the new teeth
• Introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush when more teeth come in
• Use a rice-grain sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for children under 3 years old

When should you start using toothpaste for your baby? The American Dental Association recommends using a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) as soon as the first tooth appears.

Long-Term Dental Care: Setting the Foundation for Healthy Teeth

Establishing good dental habits early can set the stage for lifelong oral health. Here are some tips for long-term dental care:

• Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after the first tooth appears
• Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle, as this can lead to tooth decay
• Limit sugary foods and drinks, especially as your child grows older
• Teach your child to drink from a cup by their first birthday
• Encourage healthy eating habits that promote strong teeth and gums

How often should you brush your baby’s teeth? Once teeth appear, aim to brush your baby’s teeth twice a day – in the morning and before bedtime. This habit will help prevent cavities and promote good oral health.

Addressing Common Concerns About Baby Teething

Parents often have questions and concerns about the teething process. Let’s address some common queries:

Can teething cause diarrhea?

While some parents report loose stools during teething, there’s no scientific evidence linking teething to diarrhea. If your baby experiences persistent diarrhea, consult your pediatrician as it may be caused by an unrelated issue.

Is it normal for babies to refuse food while teething?

Some babies may experience discomfort while eating during teething, leading to a temporary decrease in appetite. Offer soft, cool foods and be patient. If your baby consistently refuses food or shows signs of dehydration, consult your doctor.

Can teething disrupt sleep patterns?

Teething can cause discomfort that may interrupt your baby’s sleep. Maintain a consistent bedtime routine and consider using safe pain relief methods before bedtime. If sleep disturbances persist, discuss it with your pediatrician.

Are there any signs of teething complications to watch for?

While teething is generally a benign process, watch for signs of potential complications such as:

• Bleeding gums that don’t improve with gentle pressure
• Signs of infection, such as pus around the gums or swelling of the face
• Persistent high fever or other symptoms of illness

If you observe any of these signs, seek medical attention promptly.

Cultural Perspectives on Teething: Global Remedies and Beliefs

Teething remedies and beliefs vary across cultures. While some traditional practices may be harmless, others could pose risks. Here’s a glimpse into diverse cultural approaches to teething:

• In some African cultures, herbs like violet leaf are used to soothe teething pain
• In parts of India, a mixture of ground cumin and ajwain seeds is applied to the gums
• Some European cultures use amber necklaces, believing in their pain-relieving properties
• In certain Middle Eastern countries, a paste made from dates is applied to the gums

While cultural practices can be interesting, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and consult with healthcare professionals before trying any unconventional remedies.

The Role of Nutrition in Teething and Dental Development

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in dental development and can influence the teething process. Here are some nutritional considerations for teething babies:

• Ensure adequate calcium intake through breast milk, formula, or appropriate foods for older babies
• Include foods rich in vitamin D, which aids calcium absorption
• Offer foods high in vitamin C to support gum health
• Avoid excessive sugar, which can lead to tooth decay
• Introduce a variety of textures as your baby grows to promote jaw development

Can certain foods help with teething discomfort? While no specific foods are proven to alleviate teething pain, offering cool, soft foods like yogurt or pureed fruits can be soothing for some babies.

Balancing Solid Foods and Teething

As teething often coincides with the introduction of solid foods, it’s important to balance these two milestones:

• Start with soft, easily digestible foods
• Be patient if your baby shows less interest in solids during teething periods
• Offer foods at different temperatures to see what your baby prefers
• Always supervise your baby during feeding to prevent choking

Remember, every baby’s journey through teething is unique. What works for one may not work for another, so be prepared to adapt your approach as needed. With patience, care, and attention to your baby’s needs, you can help make the teething process as comfortable as possible for your little one.

Teething in Babies: Symptoms and Remedies

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

In this Article

• What Is Teething?
• When Do Babies Start Teething?
• Signs and Symptoms of Teething
• Order of Tooth Eruption
• Soothe a Teething Baby
• Treatments to Avoid
• Teething Necklaces
• Teething Medicine
• How to Care for Baby’s New Teeth

Teething is when your baby’s teeth start to come through their gum line. Another word for it is odontiasis.

Most babies begin to teethe between 4 and 7 months old, but some start much later. There’s no need to worry if your baby’s teeth come in on another timetable — it can be different for every baby.

The symptoms aren’t the same for every baby, but they may include:

• Swollen, tender gums
• Fussiness and crying
• A slightly raised temperature (less than 101 F)
• Gnawing or wanting to chew on hard things
• Lots of drool, which can cause a rash on their face
• Coughing
• Rubbing their cheek or pulling their ear
• Bringing their hands to their mouth
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

Teething can be painful, but it doesn’t usually make babies sick. Call your doctor if your baby has diarrhea, vomiting, rashes on the body, a higher fever, or cough and congestion. These aren’t normal signs of teething.

You also should call the pediatrician if your baby’s gums are bleeding or you see any pus or swelling of their face.

When and how teeth come in can be different for every baby and may be based on family history. But most of the time, the lower front two teeth come in first between 6 and 10 months, followed by the opposite top two teeth and the two on either side of those between 8 and 13 months. Next come the two on either side of the bottom front teeth, then the first molars appear between 10 and 16 months. The teeth in front of the first molars are next, and the back molars are the last ones to come in.

In all, 20 “baby teeth” will eventually be in place, usually by age 3.

What works to soothe a friend’s baby might not work for yours. You may need to try different things to help your little one feel better:

• Something cold in your baby’s mouth, like a cold pacifier, spoon, clean wet washcloth, or a solid (not liquid) refrigerated teething toy or ring. Some experts say frozen teething toys are too cold and may hurt your baby’s mouth. Make sure to clean teething toys, washcloths, and other items after the baby uses them.
• Try offering a hard, unsweetened teething cracker.
• If your baby is older than 6-9 months, you can offer cool water from a sippy cup, too.
• Massage the gums by gently rubbing them with your clean finger. If the teeth haven’t come in yet, you can let your baby gnaw on your finger. If you’re nursing your baby, try dipping your fingers in cool water and massaging their gums before each feeding. That may keep them from biting your nipple while nursing.

Never put anything in your baby’s mouth that isn’t specifically approved to help soothe teething. Even some products described as teethers or teething aids aren’t safe choices, including ones:

• Filled with liquid that can tear and spill
• Made of breakable material, like plastic, that can possibly lead to choking
• That are frozen solid — these can be too hard on a baby’s mouth

Another reason to be aware of the material used to make the teethers: Some can be made from harmful substances, like lead. Look for ones made of rubber.

Child health experts don’t recommend teething necklaces. They’re dangerous: They can strangle the baby. They also can choke if the necklace breaks and they swallow the beads.

If you do choose to use one, make sure to:

• Put it on a wrist or ankle, not around the baby’s neck.
• Always watch your baby when they wear it.
• Take it away when you aren’t watching your baby, even for a very short time.

You may have heard that amber teething necklaces release a pain reliever when heated. That’s not proven, and doctors say using one is not a good idea.

Medicine that you rub on your baby’s gums to stop the pain of teething may not help. It quickly washes away in the mouth and may numb the back of their throat and make it hard for them to swallow.

Stay away from over-the-counter teething gels and liquids that have the ingredient benzocaine. The FDA says this ingredient shouldn’t be given to children under 2. It can cause rare but serious side effects.

A small dose of a children’s pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, may help your baby. Don’t use ibuprofen for an infant under 6 months old, and ask your doctor before giving your baby any medication. Use it exactly as the doctor says.

Teething can be rough for you and your baby at first. But it’ll get easier as you both learn how to soothe each new tooth that pops out.

Good oral hygiene is important, even before your baby has teeth:

• Until teeth start to come in, clean your baby’s gums with a wet washcloth or piece of gauze at least once a day.
• Once they have teeth, clean your baby’s mouth the same way at least twice a day. After feedings is a good time for this.
• After their first birthday, you can start to use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush with water and a small amount of toothpaste that doesn’t have fluoride in it. You can also start flossing between their teeth.

Your child should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than their first birthday.

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Has my baby started teething? the signs to look out for | Baby & toddler articles & support

Teething signs can be confusing, and you’ll hear so many myths. Here we explore what teething is exactly and the signs you’ll see.

Teething happens at the same time as babies are vulnerable to illnesses and ailments as their immune system develops (Simon et al, 2015). This has led to confusion around what’s a sign of teething, and what’s not. Not just among parents but also some healthcare professionals (Plutzer et al, 2012; Eisenstadt et al, 2017).

This article sets out the signs and symptoms widely agreed to be caused by teething. It also flags up signs and symptoms not caused by teething that you’ll need to go and see your doctor about.

But first, the basics: What exactly is teething?

Teething is usually defined as when your baby’s teeth start to emerge through their gums (NHS, 2019). Their teeth were always there, within the jawbones, when they were born (Lyttle et al, 2015; NICE, 2020).

“Some babies are born with their first teeth. Others start teething before they are four months old, and some after 12 months. But most babies start teething at around six months (NHS, 2019).”

Your baby’s complete set of first teeth is usually on show by the time they’re three years old (NICE, 2020). These are often known as baby teeth or milk teeth, though the medical term is deciduous teeth because they will later fall out (NICE, 2020).

Even though your baby’s first teeth will fall out, they are very important for your baby’s health. This is because they help your child with eating solids and speech development, as well as self-esteem (Waite, 2019).

For a full guide to which teeth appear and when, see our month-by-month teething article.

Teething: What are the signs?

A baby’s teeth sometimes appear with no pain or discomfort at all (NHS, 2019). But others experience a constant, dull pain that gets increasingly intense in the four days before a tooth can be seen, before improving rapidly (Lyttle et al, 2015).

Your baby can’t use words to say they are in pain but you might see some pretty obvious signs there is a tooth on its way. The signs widely agreed to be sure indicators of teething include:

• drool, and lots of it –  teething babies can dribble way more than usual
• them biting and gumming down on anything and everything – that’s because the gnawing and chewing provides them with relief
• them being more grumpy, distressed and irritable than usual
• sore and red gums
• a loss of appetite.  

(Lyttle et al, 2015; Eisenstadt et al, 2017; NHS, 2019)

Other symptoms that might be signs of teething (although there is some debate over these) include:

• gum-rubbing
• sucking
• wakefulness
• ear-rubbing
• facial rash
• a runny nose
• a mildly-raised temperature, but still under 38°C, might also be a sign.

(Eisenstadt et al, 2017; NICE, 2020)

Your baby might be showing one of these signs or symptoms, or all of them. As with everything baby related, no two little ones are the same (Lyttle et al, 2015). In fact, teething signs can be so wide ranging, and vary so much from baby to baby that only one third of teething infants would experience any one of the signs above (Macknin et al, 2000).

Some studies go as far as to say none of these symptoms can be proven to be a sign of teething. They suggest the only way to know if your baby is teething is to examine their mouth – looking and feeling for an emerging tooth (Tighe and Roe, 2007).

Try laying your baby on your lap and sneaking a peek inside their mouth by moving their top or bottom lip or gently coaxing open their jaw. Use a clean finger to gently feel around their upper and lower gums systematically, one potential tooth spot at a time.

Is my baby teething or sick?

What’s not teething?

Other signs and symptoms that studies have found are generally NOT linked with teething include:

• congestion and coughs
• sleep disturbance
• runny poos, increased number of poos and nappy rash associated with them
• less interest or appetite for liquids
• rashes other than facial rashes
• fever over 38°C
• vomiting. 

(Eisenstadt et al, 2017; NICE, 2020)

It’s important you don’t assume one of these is a sign of teething. It could be something more serious and require medical attention.

Don’t confuse illness with teething

A fever and other clinically important symptoms, like diarrhoea, vomiting and rashes are very unlikely to be caused by teething, so make sure you talk to your GP or call NHS 111 (Tighe and Roe, 2007).

One study looked at 50 babies admitted to hospital with various conditions which the parents mistook for teething. In 48 of these children, a medical condition other than teething was identified, including a case of bacterial meningitis (Tighe and Roe, 2007).

Right, I’ve established my baby is teething. Now what?

You can read our articles on how to ease the pain associated with teething, and top tips proven to work.

It is also important to look after yourself, as your baby’s upset is likely to be stressful. You might feel exhausted too, as they’ll require even more of your attention. Our keeping calm with a crying baby article has some useful techniques you can try to keep your stress levels down.

This page was last reviewed in July 2022.

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby: 0300 330 0700.

You might find attending one of NCT’s Early Days groups helpful as they give you the opportunity to explore different approaches to important parenting issues with a qualified group leader and other new parents in your area.

Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.

Read more about fever in children from the NHS.

For more information on what other illnesses may be causing their fever, this article from NICE is very useful.

If you are concerned, contact your GP or call NHS 111 where you can access urgent medical help fast.

NCT has partnered with the British Red Cross to offer courses in baby first aid.

References

Eisenstadt M, Malkiel S, Pollak U. (2017) It’s alright, ma (I’m only teething…) dispelling the myth from the teeth. Acad J Ped Neonatol. 3(4):555618. Available at: https://juniperpublishers.com/ajpn/pdf/AJPN.MS.ID.555618.pdf [Accessed 23rd July 2022]

Lyttle C, Stoops F, Welbury R, Wilson N. (2015) Tooth eruption and teething in children. Pharm J. 295:7883. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1211/PJ.2015.20069598

Macknin ML, Piedmonte M, Jacobs J, Skibinski C. (2000) Symptoms associated with infant teething: a prospective study. Pediatrics. 105:747-752. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.105.4.747

NHS. (2019) Baby teething symptoms. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/babys-development/teething/baby-teet… [Accessed 23rd July 2022]

NICE. (2020) Teething. Available at: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/teething/#!diagnosissub:1 [Accessed 23rd July 2022]

Plutzer K, Spencer AJ, Keirse MJ. (2012) How first-time mothers perceive and deal with teething symptoms: a randomized controlled trial. Child Care Health Dev. 38(2):292-299. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2214.2011.01215.x

Simon AK, Hollander GA, McMichael A. (2015) Evolution of the immune system in humans from infancy to old age. Proc Biol Sci. 282(1821):20143085. Available at: https://doi. org/10.1098/rspb.2014.3085

Tighe M, Roe MFE. (2007) Does a teething child need serious illness excluding? Arch Dis Child. 92(3):266-268. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1136/adc.2006.110114

Waite C. (2019) Do baby teeth matter? Available at: https://bda.org/news-centre/blog/do-baby-teeth-matter [Accessed 28th September 2022]

Teething: how to help the baby?

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• Teething: how to help the baby?

Teething is a natural process for every small child, which, however, turns into a painful condition for him, and even more stress for his parents. It is hard to watch when a small child is in pain. During this period, the baby develops symptoms similar to a severe cold: ear pain, fever, diarrhea, general body aches and a runny nose. Plus, the baby cries and acts up more than usual. Sometimes such symptoms are absent or pass almost imperceptibly – after all, much here depends on the nature of the little man. All children are different – this is a well-known truth, therefore their development (and teething refers specifically to growth and development) is completely different. In any case, parents should not be afraid, because their baby is growing, and our article will tell how to help him during this period.

When do the first milk teeth appear?

It is generally accepted that the first milk teeth appear in a baby at six months. In fact, they are formed in the baby’s mouth even when he is in the mother’s stomach. In the sixth or eighth week of pregnancy, twenty teeth are born, which are called rudiments. When a baby is six months old, milk teeth appear, deep under which, by that time, permanent teeth are at the embryonic stage. There are cases when a child is born with teeth, but they are very rare. It happens that the baby’s dental system develops too early, and already at three months small white spots in the gums are visible in the mouth. Milk teeth may appear not in six months, but in a year. Although such a development of the situation is considered a deviation from the norm, as a rule, this is not associated with pathologies, but with various characteristics of the child’s body and heredity.

With rare exceptions, children’s dental system develops in this order:

• Six months or about a year – four incisors appear in the mouth: two upper and two lower;
• One year – deuces appear, – one more incisors – four pieces;
• One and a half years – the appearance of molars, upper and lower;
• Two years – teething;
• Three years – the appearance of a row of molars.

Signs of teething in a child. How to define them?

Those signs that parents are waiting for – fever and pain, do not appear immediately. But to recognize that the baby begins the process of teething is still not difficult. If you notice that the child began to salivate, and any thing that was in his hands, he strives to taste and chew well with his gums, then the baby is teething. This sign never fails. During this period, it is especially important to monitor the cleanliness of toys and other hygiene at home.

The second sign of teething is swelling and redness of the gums. In order to detect this, you just need to watch the baby’s mouth, paying attention to the tops of the gums. If you saw white spots there, then it’s time to buy a special device at the pharmacy – a teether.

The third symptom is a bad mood that the child experiences from periodic pain. The kid is not interested in playing, he often cries and is naughty, and in connection with this, his night’s sleep may also deteriorate. This period lasts only two days, but parents should be patient and show their love to the child more often than usual.

The fourth most unpleasant sign of teething is various pains and temperature. It is important here not to confuse these pains with cold symptoms or indigestion. The baby may begin to have a runny nose, diarrhea, fever, ear pain and a general weakening of the immune system, in addition, the gums may ache and itch a lot. During this period, the child’s vulnerability to infections increases. This state can last two or three days, and it ends as quickly as it appeared.

How can a child be helped and relieved?

First aid is the care, affection and kindness that parents are obliged to surround their child with. After all, in an atmosphere of love and tenderness, even getting sick is not so scary, and small children feel this truth very well. To protect the baby from infections, it is necessary to observe hygiene in the house, it is especially important to ventilate the room well while the baby is on a walk or in another room. If any infection has entered the room, then airing will reduce the risk of its spread to a minimum. Don’t forget gum toys. The fact is that during this period the baby experiences considerable itching in the gums, and the teether is made of a pleasant, soft material. They can not only scratch the gums, but also cool them, because these devices are filled with cold water. In case you notice that in addition to the teether, additional help is needed for the gums, you can purchase a special tooth gel with the appropriate age mark: from 0 or 6 months. This drug relieves itching, pain and swelling of the gums. Also, be careful with the use of antipyretics. The fact is that temperature is a friend of a person, even the smallest. If the temperature rises to 38 or even 39This means that the body fights infection well. Therefore, by lowering the temperature, you deprive the child’s body of the natural ability to fight infection. In addition, a sharp drop in temperature is very harmful to the body. In folk medicine, there are good ways that effectively, and most importantly, safely reduce the temperature: these are wraps with a damp cloth. Soak a cotton cloth or gauze in cool water and wrap it around the baby’s legs. This method is not only antipyretic, but also relieves other unpleasant symptoms: headache and body aches.

Also, do not rush to give your child medicines if the baby has a little stomachache or a runny nose. Any medical medicine is produced chemically, which is not so good for the health of the child. In addition, teething is not a dangerous process, so such strict measures should not be applied. But it is still necessary to alleviate the condition of the child, for which proven folk methods are perfect – these are decoctions of herbs. Pain in the tummy very well and quickly soothes a weak infusion of peppermint, which, moreover, will help the baby calm down and fall asleep faster. The same herb also helps with vomiting. In addition, peppermint is an antispasmodic, which means it copes well with headaches. In addition to mint, you can prepare a light decoction of chamomile or oregano. Natural pomace of eucalyptus or Kalanchoe helps with a runny nose, but they are far from always available. It is worth preparing for this in advance by asking the local pediatrician for a prescription for preparing an ointment for a cold in a pharmacy. These remedies are made from herbs. They are natural, safe and effective.

In order to survive the period of teething as painlessly as possible, try to prepare all the means in advance, while not forgetting to consult a pediatrician.

How to properly care for children’s teeth?

• Your baby’s oral care should start from the first milk teeth. The best toothbrush for a child under one year old is mom’s or dad’s finger, which is wrapped in a soft cloth, mostly gauze. During such brushing, it is very important not to frighten or upset the child, trying to turn this activity into an interesting game.
• Children under the age of three who already have molars should buy a soft silicone brush and fluoride-free toothpaste. To make your baby like pasta, choose products with a pleasant, sweet taste. Most importantly, make sure that the child does not swallow the paste. It is very important not to scare the child away from brushing their teeth, but on the contrary, to show that this is an interesting and enjoyable activity. It is good if the parents themselves set an example for the baby, performing the procedure of brushing their teeth together.
• Try to get your child to brush their own teeth by the age of three. At the same time, you must control this process, check the result, and, if necessary, gently show the child where he made a mistake this time.

Children’s tooth gel in our boutique

Gel Sweet Banana

Gel berry cherry

Gel Neutral

Gel Pink Pear

Teach your child to brush their teeth correctly from an early age, that is, after eating. After all, this is logical, because after breakfast, the teeth will see the brush and paste only in the evening. Another important rule for a child’s dental hygiene is the restriction of eating sweets such as sweets, cakes, lollipops, cakes and sweet water. To maintain healthy teeth for as long as possible, ideally, it would be worthwhile to completely protect the child from this kind of sweets. But we all understand that it is not easy. Therefore, an important and responsible matter of parents should be to control the amount of sweets, because in addition to the risk of caries, sweets can cause other problems in the body. Taking care of your baby’s teeth will help him avoid many problems in the future, such as tooth decay, toothache, malocclusion and disproportionate growth of facial bones. Thanks to the right actions and the responsible approach of parents, children will keep a beautiful smile for life.

Make an appointment with a doctor right now

We hope this article has helped you prepare for the big event of teething and put our tips into practice. The specialists of our center are always ready to conduct a preventive examination of the condition of your child’s teeth and, if necessary, correct the formation of the dentoalveolar system.

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• About dentistry

How to help a baby when he is teething

Ekaterina Borisovna Bulavina

pediatrician of the 1st category

Teeth break through – it even sounds painful. Indeed, when a baby starts teething, it often turns out to be painful. Many children do not sleep well, often cry, some even have a fever. But there are other symptoms that indicate that your baby is going through the period of the appearance of milk teeth.

— Ekaterina Borisovna, please tell us when babies usually start teething?

– Teething times are quite variable. On average, the first teeth come out at 5-7 months, but the process can begin earlier (both at two and at four months) or take up to a year. Some babies are born with teeth already. Everything is very individual and depends on many factors, such as heredity, sufficient intake of calcium in the body, gender of the child, climate in the place of residence.

– How fast will teeth cut after the first one appears?

– In both boys and girls, the process of complete eruption of the milk bite usually drags on for 2.5-3 years. The upper incisors appear 2–3 months after the appearance of the lower ones, then at the age of 9–13 months, the upper and lower lateral incisors erupt. From a year to a year and a half, the upper and lower first molars alternately appear, then, by 20 months, the upper and lower canines, by 2-2.5 years, the second molars. However, the sequence and timing of when babies begin to cut their teeth are very arbitrary.

Table and diagram by month: what time do children start teething

— How to understand that a child is teething?

— The appearance of teeth, although physiological, is a real test for a child and his mom and dad. Only recently they experienced colic, a feeding and sleeping regime was established, when suddenly the baby again becomes restless, naughty, refuses to eat, or, conversely, often and greedily grabs a breast or a bottle, sleeps poorly and pulls everything into his mouth. These are sure signs of the beginning of teething.

Some lucky people endure the whole process completely painlessly, and only an occasional tapping of the gum with a spoon reveals the first tooth that has already erupted. But sometimes the moment of teething is so difficult for the baby that it is easy to confuse it with the onset of the disease.

Only a doctor can determine the real cause of the child’s anxiety, and you should definitely contact him if the temperature rises to febrile numbers, severe lethargy, weakness, or, conversely, the baby’s strong excitability, as well as when signs of infection are attached, such as a runny nose, cough, disorders digestion, vomiting, loose stools.

— Ekaterina Borisovna, parents are waiting for the appearance of the first incisors with caution. What symptoms characterize the process in addition to pain discomfort?

– When teeth are being cut, the symptoms are very varied, and everyone is individual. In this case, the symptoms, depending on the location of the cutting teeth, may differ. Usually the most unpleasant sensations accompany the appearance of only the first teeth. All subsequent ones erupt more calmly, and the child practically ceases to pay attention to this process. With the appearance of chewing teeth, pain may resume, but they are not as intense as at the very beginning of eruption. The appearance of the upper teeth is often accompanied by a runny nose: this is due to the proximity of the location and a single network of blood supply to the upper jaw and nasal cavity.

— When is it better to bring down the temperature during teething?

– Antipyretic therapy is usually prescribed when the temperature rises above 38.5 degrees. Subfebrile temperature, up to 38 degrees, should always be brought down in children with organic damage to the central nervous system, with the threat of convulsions, as well as with pronounced changes in the general condition of the child.

— Why should a child’s health be closely monitored during teething? Does teething affect the immune system?

— Teething is a rather complex process involving all systems of a child’s body. The immune system is no exception. At the moment of tooth movement, a traumatic lesion of the gums occurs and, as a result, inflammation occurs in the tissues. Immune cells rush to the inflammatory focus, trying to eliminate it, which somewhat weakens the local protective reaction. In addition, the content of the enzyme lysozyme is reduced in abundant saliva, and it loses its protective properties. In addition, during this period, the child pulls everything into his mouth, trying to scratch itchy gums, which increases the risk of infection and injury to the mucous membrane.

— How can parents tell teething from other problems like a cold?

— Distinguishing a viral infection from teething syndrome is sometimes difficult even for a specialist: very often two conditions occur simultaneously. With eruption syndrome, the temperature rarely exceeds 38-38.5 degrees, the discharge from the nose is abundant, mucous in nature, often transparent. Cough superficial, occurs more often in a horizontal position. All symptoms are accompanied by profuse salivation. The general condition of the child rarely worsens, the child is capricious, whiny, but not lethargic or apathetic.

Teething may also be accompanied by symptoms of dyspepsia such as regurgitation and sometimes even vomiting, loose stools. Unlike an intestinal infection, regurgitation and vomiting are episodic and occur when saliva is abundant.

Fluid stools may be associated with increased motility due to fever – ingestion of large amounts of saliva and intense chewing movements. Stool 1-2 times a day, normal color and smell, without pathological impurities, but softer consistency.

In the event of any symptoms that do not fit into the picture of teething, you should definitely consult a doctor.

— Does teething pain occur in all children?

— Each child has his own pain threshold. The intensity of inflammatory reactions is also different for everyone, so each baby experiences teething in its own way. If one will continuously cry all night, then the other may behave in a completely normal way. It depends on both genetics and the temperament of the baby.

— When teeth are being cut, how can you help a baby? What drugs are allowed to be given to relieve pain?

— Pain relief gels are widely used. However, you should remember the rules for their use. They have a short effect, about 20-30 minutes, but it is not recommended to use them more than five times a day. The gel is applied in a thin layer to avoid an overdose of the drug. And, as in the case of any medicine, do not forget about the possible allergic reaction in the baby.

Only anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve pain quickly and permanently. And there is a lot of BUT here. Any drug is not safe, especially if it is given for the first time. Only a doctor can assess the child’s condition and prescribe anti-inflammatory therapy if necessary, taking into account the risk-benefit ratio.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be given by mouth. The dosage is calculated by the doctor depending on the weight of the child. On the mucosa, gels with local anesthetic and antiseptic effects are used.

— Can folk remedies relieve pain and other symptoms?

— Treatment with folk remedies in our country is very popular, although the world scientific community questions its effectiveness. Only the effect of cold has proven effectiveness, therefore it is recommended to give the child chilled pacifiers and teethers to gnaw. Cold causes vasospasm, reduces swelling and inflammation in the gums, and, as a result, pain temporarily subsides. The effect is short-lived, but still there. It is also useful to massage the gums with a fingertip or a soft brush.

— Ekaterina Borisovna, tell us more about how nipples or toys that can be chewed help with toothache, and how to choose a pacifier and a special teether for a child.

— Gum massage helps baby cope with discomfort. During the massage, itching decreases, the gum tissue softens, and it is easier for the tooth to make its way. But constantly massaging a child’s gums is a very tedious task. He may well engage in self-massage, especially since during this period he himself with pleasure pulls everything into his mouth.

Special pacifiers or teethers will be excellent massage assistants. They differ from ordinary nipples in greater rigidity and a relief surface; they are made of latex or silicone. Many models of teethers are supplemented with a cooling function – inside contains a liquid that can be cooled. Teethers are also made of plastic, wood or even textiles. But, in my opinion, they do not meet safety standards. It is worth choosing brands that have long been widely represented on the children’s goods market.

— What techniques can be used to distract a child from a toothache?

– In this case, there is only one method – to surround the baby with care and attention as much as possible, to take him in your arms more often, to put him on the chest if the child asks. Next to the parents, the baby feels safe, calms down. Children are very sensitive to the behavior and emotions of adults, so it is important for parents to be calm and friendly, to distract the kids with toys, songs, affectionate words. Older children can play finger games. Relaxing massages and long walks are helpful.

Unfortunately, there are no absolutely effective methods. Parents can only help the baby cope with the problem. But there are a few tips that will help you get through this difficult period.

– Please share them with our readers.

– The rudiments of teeth are laid long before birth. Therefore, a mother during pregnancy should carefully monitor her diet. Sufficient intake of calcium is especially important for the formation of healthy teeth in the baby. But even after birth, calcium should not be forgotten. When breastfeeding, the mother’s diet should contain dairy products or calcium supplements in case of intolerance to cow’s milk proteins by the baby.

Hardening from birth is a guarantee of good immunity. No need to wrap the child in a hundred clothes and be afraid to air the rooms. Walk in any weather and long enough, use a light contrast shower. And then no cold is terrible for the baby.

Also avoid public places, especially during teething. The baby is very vulnerable at this moment. Postpone visits from relatives, shopping trips and visits to indoor playgrounds for a while – thereby reducing the risk of infection in the child.

It is also especially important during this period to maintain the optimum temperature in the room. Heat and dry air will only increase discomfort.

Teething is a difficult stage in a child’s life. If the process causes severe discomfort, is accompanied by the appearance of alarming symptoms, high temperature, then you should contact a specialist for help as soon as possible. For the rest, surround the baby with care and attention, pick up nipples, teethers, toys that relieve itching, use medications with the permission of the doctor. The main thing during this period is to be there and help the baby in every possible way to cope with the pain.

* Breast milk is the best food for babies. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of a child’s life and continued breastfeeding after complementary feeding until age 2 years.