When do babies typically start teething. What are the common symptoms of teething in infants. How can parents soothe their teething baby’s discomfort. What is the usual order of baby tooth eruption. Are there any misconceptions about teething symptoms. How long does the teething process last for most children.

Understanding Baby Teething: A Comprehensive Overview

Teething is a significant milestone in a baby’s development, marking the emergence of their first teeth. While this process is natural and necessary, it can be a challenging time for both infants and parents. Understanding the teething process, its symptoms, and how to provide relief can help make this transition smoother for everyone involved.

When Does Teething Typically Begin?

The onset of teething can vary significantly from one baby to another. Some infants may be born with teeth, while others might not see their first tooth until after their first birthday. However, most babies begin teething around 6 months of age.

Is there a specific age range for teething? While 6 months is average, teething can start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. This wide range is completely normal and depends on various factors, including genetics and individual development.

Early Teethers vs. Late Bloomers

Some babies are early teethers, with teeth appearing before 4 months. Others are late bloomers, not showing signs of teething until after their first birthday. Both scenarios are within the realm of normal development, and parents should not be overly concerned if their child falls into either category.

Recognizing Teething Symptoms in Babies

Teething can manifest differently in each baby. While some infants may sail through the process with minimal discomfort, others might experience more noticeable symptoms. Understanding these signs can help parents provide timely comfort and care.

• Increased drooling
• Sore and red gums
• Mild temperature (less than 38°C)
• Flushed cheek(s)
• Facial rash
• Ear rubbing
• Increased chewing and gnawing on objects
• Irritability and fretfulness
• Disrupted sleep patterns

Do all babies exhibit the same teething symptoms? No, teething experiences can vary greatly. Some babies might show multiple symptoms, while others may have teeth emerge with little to no discomfort at all.

Misconceptions About Teething Symptoms

It’s important to note that certain symptoms are often mistakenly attributed to teething. These include:

• High fever
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Cough and congestion
• Reduced appetite for liquid foods

If your baby experiences these symptoms, especially if they persist or are severe, it’s crucial to consult with a pediatrician as they may indicate other health issues.

The Typical Order of Baby Tooth Eruption

While the timing of tooth emergence can vary, the order in which baby teeth appear is generally consistent. Understanding this sequence can help parents anticipate what’s coming next in their child’s dental development.

1. Bottom central incisors (5-7 months)
2. Top central incisors (6-8 months)
3. Top lateral incisors (9-11 months)
4. Bottom lateral incisors (10-12 months)
5. First molars (12-16 months)
6. Canines (16-20 months)
7. Second molars (20-30 months)

Is this order of tooth eruption the same for all babies? While this sequence is typical, it’s not set in stone. Some babies might have teeth appear in a slightly different order, which is generally not a cause for concern.

Soothing Techniques for Teething Babies

Teething can be uncomfortable for babies, but there are several ways parents can help alleviate their little one’s discomfort:

• Gently massage the gums with a clean finger
• Offer a cold teething ring or washcloth to chew on
• Provide safe, chewable toys designed for teething
• Use a clean, damp washcloth to wipe away excess drool
• For babies over 6 months, offer cold foods like yogurt or pureed fruit
• Consider over-the-counter pain relief medications (consult with a pediatrician first)

Can teething gels be used to soothe a baby’s gums? While teething gels are available, many healthcare professionals advise against their use due to potential side effects and limited effectiveness. Always consult with a pediatrician before using any medication or topical treatment.

The Duration of the Teething Process

Teething is not a quick process. It typically begins around 6 months of age and continues until all 20 primary teeth have erupted, which usually occurs by the time a child is 2 to 3 years old. However, the most intense period of teething often occurs during the first year, when the front teeth are coming in.

How long does each tooth take to fully emerge? The process of a single tooth breaking through the gum can take anywhere from a few days to several months. Some babies might experience discomfort for just a day or two, while others might be fussy for longer periods.

Teething and Overall Development

It’s worth noting that teething often coincides with other developmental milestones, such as increased mobility and the introduction of solid foods. This convergence of changes can sometimes make it challenging to distinguish teething symptoms from other developmental issues.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While teething is a normal process, there are instances when parents should consult a healthcare professional:

• If your baby has a fever over 38°C (100.4°F)
• If teething seems to be causing severe pain or distress
• If there are signs of infection in the mouth, such as swelling or pus
• If your baby refuses to eat or drink for an extended period
• If you notice any unusual growths or abnormalities in your baby’s mouth

Should parents be concerned if their baby hasn’t started teething by 12 months? While it’s less common, some babies don’t start teething until after their first birthday. However, if you’re concerned about your baby’s dental development, it’s always best to consult with a pediatrician or pediatric dentist.

Dental Care for Teething Babies

As soon as your baby’s first tooth appears, it’s time to start thinking about dental care. Here are some tips for maintaining good oral hygiene in teething infants:

• Clean gums daily with a soft, damp cloth
• Once teeth appear, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush
• Use a rice-grain sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for babies under 3 years
• Schedule the first dental visit by the first birthday or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing
• Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle to prevent tooth decay

Is fluoride toothpaste safe for babies? Yes, using a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) is safe and recommended by most dental associations for cavity prevention, even in infants.

The Importance of Early Dental Care

Establishing good oral hygiene habits early on is crucial for your child’s long-term dental health. While baby teeth are temporary, they play a vital role in speech development, proper chewing, and guiding permanent teeth into place. Caring for these primary teeth sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Teething is a significant milestone in your baby’s development, marking the beginning of their dental journey. While it can be challenging for both babies and parents, understanding the process, recognizing symptoms, and knowing how to provide comfort can make this transition smoother. Remember, every baby is unique, and their teething experience may differ from others. By staying informed and attentive, you can help your little one navigate this important stage with minimal discomfort and set them on the path to good oral health for life.

Baby teething symptoms – NHS

When it comes to teething, all babies are different. But your baby will probably get their first tooth some time during their first year.

Find out how to spot when your baby is teething and what order your baby’s teeth are likely to appear in.

When do babies start teething?

Some babies are born with their first teeth. Others start teething before they are 4 months old, and some after 12 months. But most babies start teething at around 6 months.

Teething symptoms

Baby teeth sometimes emerge with no pain or discomfort at all.

At other times, you may notice:

• their gum is sore and red where the tooth is coming through
• they have a mild temperature of less than 38C
• they have 1 flushed cheek
• they have a rash on their face
• they’re rubbing their ear
• they’re dribbling more than usual
• they’re gnawing and chewing on things a lot
• they’re more fretful than usual
• they’re not sleeping very well

Read tips on how to help your teething baby.

Some people think that teething causes other symptoms, such as diarrhoea, but there’s no evidence to support this.

You know your baby best. Get medical advice if they have any symptoms that are causing you concern. You can call NHS 111 or contact a GP.

Read more about spotting the signs of serious illness in babies and toddlers.

What order do baby teeth appear in?

Here’s a rough guide to how babies’ teeth usually emerge:

• bottom incisors (bottom front teeth) – these are usually the first to come through, usually at around 5 to 7 months
• top incisors (top front teeth) – these tend to come through at about 6 to 8 months
• top lateral incisors (either side of the top front teeth) – these come through at around 9 to 11 months
• bottom lateral incisors (either side of the bottom front teeth) – these come through at around 10 to 12 months
• first molars (back teeth) – these come through at around 12 to 16 months
• canines (between the lateral incisors and the first molars) – these come through at around 16 to 20 months
• second molars – these come through at around 20 to 30 months

Most children will have all of their milk teeth by the time they are between 2 and 3 years old.

Community content from HealthUnlocked

Page last reviewed: 9 August 2022

Next review due: 9 August 2025

Is My Baby Teething? Check our Baby Teething Chart to Find Out

One joy of parenthood is watching your little one reach milestones. It’s common to celebrate a baby crawling or walking for the first time. But these aren’t the only milestones to look forward to. You might even celebrate your baby’s first tooth.

Here’s what you need to know about teething, as well as what you can do to make the experience more comfortable for your baby.

Baby teeth erupt, or come in, gradually at different times. Typically, you can expect your baby to have all 20 of their primary teeth by the age of 3. Keep in mind, though, the timing that teeth appear can vary from child to child.

Here’s a general guideline when you can expect each tooth to erupt:

Lower teeth

• central incisor: 6–10 months
• lateral incisor: 10–16 months
• canine (cuspid): 17–23 months
• first molar: 14–18 months
• second molar: 23–31 months

Upper teeth

• central incisor: 8–12 months
• lateral incisor: 9–13 months
• canine (cuspid): 16–22 months
• first molar: 13–19 months
• second molar: 25–33 months

Eventually, 32 permanent teeth will replace your child’s 20 primary teeth.

The time frame for children losing their primary teeth also varies from child to child. In most cases, this takes place over a course of about 6 years.

Children initially shed or lose their central incisor teeth around 6 or 7 years old. The last teeth to fall out are the canines and molars. Most children lose these teeth by age 12.

While some babies get their first tooth around 6 months old, teething can start a little earlier or a little later. Some babies have their first tooth erupt as early as 3 months old, but other babies don’t get their first tooth until 12 months old or older.

As you see the first signs of a tooth, your baby may seem to experience discomfort and pain. This might make sleep and eating difficult for a short time, and your baby might cry more often.

Common symptoms of a teething baby include:

• increased drooling
• possible reduced appetite for solids
• irritability
• biting and chewing
• gum rubbing

If your baby is between 3 and 12 months old and develops these symptoms, they may be cutting a tooth and there’s likely no cause for alarm.

But it’s important to note that some symptoms are not associated with teething. These symptoms include:

• fever
• facial rash
• cough and congestion
• diarrhea or vomiting
• reduced appetite for liquid foods

If your baby develops any of these signs and symptoms, don’t assume it’s from teething, and contact your pediatrician if symptoms persist or your baby seems sick.

Teething pain can make your little one miserable and irritable. Soreness and pain can occur for some babies as the tooth erupts through their little gums. Other babies may not display any signs or symptoms related to teething.

You might see some crankiness and a lot of tears — but you can make this transition easier for your baby. The trick is making their gums as comfortable as possible.

Massage baby’s gums

If it seems to comfort them, gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger. Be gentle, but apply firm pressure. This increases blood flow to your baby’s gum tissue which may reduce inflammation and pain.

Use a cool compress

Applying coolness to your baby’s gums can also reduce discomfort. Some parents will chill a teething ring in the refrigerator (not freezer!), and then give it to their baby to chew on.

You can also apply a cold spoon to your baby’s sore gums. As a precaution, only use a cold spoon if your baby doesn’t have teeth yet. Chewing on a metal spoon could accidentally chip their delicate teeth.

Consider pain medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also reduce pain. When used correctly, pain relievers are safe to give to babies. These medications can reduce pain associated with teething, but should only be used occasionally.

Be sure to consult your doctor before giving medication to children under 2 years old, or if you’re feeling like you need to give pain relievers for more than a day or two.

Do not use topical gels

There are topical numbing gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine to help relieve teething pain on the market.