Teething occurs when a baby’s teeth begin to emerge through the gums. This can be a challenging period for both babies and their parents. Understanding what to anticipate during teething and finding ways to ease the discomfort can be beneficial.
When does teething start?
Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months old, although some early birds might get their first tooth as young as 3 months. The bottom two front teeth (central incisors) usually pop up first, followed by the four upper front teeth about a month later. Then, the two teeth flanking the bottom front teeth appear. After that come the molars (for grinding), and finally the pointy canine teeth. By age three, most children have all 20 of their baby teeth.
It’s worth checking in with a doctor if your child’s teething seems significantly delayed.
While rare, some babies are born with teeth or get them very soon after birth. This isn’t usually a problem unless the teeth interfere with feeding or are loose enough to be a choking hazard.
The most common signs of teething
While teething signs can vary increased drooling and a desire to chew on everything are common. Some babies breeze through teething, while others experience irritability, disrupted sleep and eating, and lots of crying. While teething can cause slightly swollen gums and a mildly elevated temperature, it shouldn’t cause a high fever or diarrhea. If your baby experiences these symptoms, it’s best to contact your doctor as something else might be going on.
How to help my baby during teething
Teething can be tough on little ones, but here’s how to make it easier:
- Drool Patrol: Keep your baby’s face clean and dry to prevent rashes by frequently wiping away drool;
- Gum Massage: Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger;
- Chew Time: Offer safe chewing options. A washcloth soaked and chilled in the freezer for 30 minutes (but not rock-hard!) works well. Ensure it’s washed after each use. Rubber teething rings are also helpful, but avoid liquid-filled ones as they can leak or break. Chill these in the refrigerator, not the freezer. Never boil teething rings as this can damage the plastic;
- Food as Comfort (for solids eaters only): Teething biscuits and chilled or frozen foods can offer relief but only if your baby has already started solids. Supervise closely to prevent choking;
- Pain Relief: If your baby is very uncomfortable, check with your doctor about giving acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months).
Important Safety Reminders:
- Never use aspirin on the gums or rub them with alcohol.
- Never tie a teething ring around your baby’s neck or any other body part – this is a strangulation hazard.
- Avoid amber teething necklaces as they pose choking and strangulation risks.
- Don’t use teething gels and tablets as they may not be safe for babies.
Taking care of your baby’s teeth
Caring for your baby’s teeth, even the first set, is crucial for long-term dental health. While baby teeth eventually fall out, decay can cause premature loss, creating gaps before permanent teeth are ready. This can lead to crowding and crooked permanent teeth later on.
Here’s how to keep those tiny teeth healthy:
- Before Teeth: Clean your baby’s gums daily with a damp washcloth, gauze, or a soft, infant-sized toothbrush and water;
- First Tooth Arrival: As soon as that first tooth pops up, start brushing with a tiny smear of fluoridated toothpaste and water;
- Toothpaste Tips: Once your child can spit (around age 3), you can increase the amount of fluoridated toothpaste to a pea-sized amount. Prevent swallowing or eating toothpaste as excessive fluoride can be harmful;
- Brushing Routine: Aim for brushing at least twice a day, especially after meals, once all baby teeth have emerged;
- Flossing Fun: Introduce flossing early, ideally when two teeth begin to touch. Ask your dentist for tips on flossing little teeth. Let your toddler watch and imitate you to make it a fun routine;
- No Bottle at Bedtime: Avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle, as pooled milk or juice can cause decay and plaque;
- First Dentist Visit: The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a first dental visit by age 1, or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing, to catch any potential issues early.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The content provided on this blog is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health, treatment, or the health of your child. Reliance on any information provided on this blog is solely at your own risk.
