Teething is an important milestone in every child’s development, but it can often be a challenging time for both babies and parents. Understanding the process, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage this stage more effectively and support your child’s dental health.
What is Teething?
Teething refers to the process of a baby’s first teeth (also called primary or deciduous teeth) erupting through the gums. These teeth are essential for chewing food, speech development, and eventually guiding permanent teeth into place.
The Teething Timeline: When Does It Start?
Every child is different, but most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months of age. The complete set of 20 primary teeth typically appears by the time a child is about 3 years old.
Here is a general timeline for tooth eruption:
- 6-10 months: Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth)
- 8-12 months: Upper central incisors (top front teeth)
- 9-13 months: Upper lateral incisors (next to the front teeth)
- 10-16 months: Lower lateral incisors
- 13-19 months: First molars (back teeth for grinding)
- 16-22 months: Canines (pointed teeth next to the molars)
- 25-33 months: Second molars (final set of back teeth)
While this is a common timeline, it is perfectly normal for some babies to start earlier or later. If teeth have not appeared by 18 months, consult a pediatric dentist.
Symptoms of Teething
The process of teething can cause discomfort. Common symptoms include:
- Excessive drooling: Increased saliva production is a classic sign of teething.
- Chewing on objects: Babies often gnaw on their fingers, toys, or anything they can grab to relieve gum discomfort.
- Irritability or fussiness: Gum pain can make babies crankier and clingier.
- Swollen or tender gums: You may notice redness or slight swelling where the tooth is erupting.
- Sleep disturbances: Pain or discomfort can disrupt naps and nighttime sleep.
- Loss of appetite: Sore gums may make eating or breastfeeding less appealing.
- Mild fever: Some babies may have a low-grade fever, though high fevers are not directly caused by teething and should be evaluated by a doctor.
It is important to note that severe symptoms like high fever, diarrhea, or a rash are not typical of teething. If your child experiences these, consult your pediatrician to rule out illness.
How to Soothe a Teething Baby
While teething can be uncomfortable, there are several safe and effective ways to help your baby feel better:
- Gum Massage: Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a damp gauze pad to provide temporary relief.
- Teething Toys: Offer chilled (not frozen) teething rings or toys made of safe, non-toxic materials. The cool temperature can numb the gums and reduce pain.
- Cold Foods: For babies eating solids, try giving chilled fruits like apple slices or a cold carrot to gnaw on (under supervision). Frozen breastmilk popsicles can also be soothing.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months) can help reduce pain. Always consult your pediatrician for proper dosing.
- Keep Them Dry: Excess drooling can irritate the skin around your baby’s mouth. Use soft bibs and gently wipe their face to keep the skin clean and dry.
What to Avoid During Teething
While it is tempting to try various remedies, some methods can be unsafe:
- Teething gels with benzocaine: These can be harmful to babies and are not recommended.
- Amber teething necklaces: They pose a choking and strangulation risk.
- Frozen items: Extremely cold objects can harm your baby’s gums.
Stick to proven, pediatrician-recommended methods to keep your baby safe and comfortable.
Caring for Emerging Teeth
Once your baby’s first tooth appears, dental care becomes essential:
- Start brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear (grain of rice-sized) of fluoride toothpaste.
- Avoid sugary drinks: Sugary liquids, including juices and milk, can cause tooth decay if left on the teeth.
- Schedule a dental visit: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within 6 months of their first tooth appearing.
When to Call the Pediatrician
While teething is a natural process, consult your pediatrician if:
- Symptoms seem severe or unusual (e.g., high fever, persistent diarrhea).
- Teeth have not emerged by 18 months.
- Your child shows signs of dental issues, such as discoloration or swelling.
