Teething in Babies: A Guide for Parents

Teething is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a challenging one. If your baby seems fussier than usual, drooling more, or chewing on everything in sight, a new tooth may be on the way!

Here’s what’s normal, what’s not, and how to help your baby stay comfortable.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Most babies get their first tooth between 6 and 10 months, but timing varies. Some children may be born with teeth and others may not see their first tooth until closer to their first birthday.

Typically, your child’s lower front teeth (bottom incisors) come in first followed by the upper front teeth. Most children have a full set of 20 baby teeth by age 3.

Common Signs of Teething

Teething symptoms are usually mild and may include:

• Increased drooling
• Chewing on hands or objects
• Mild gum swelling or tenderness
• Slight irritability
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Decreased appetite for solids 

Some babies may develop a mild temperature elevation (below 100.4˚F), but higher temperatures are not caused by teething. High fever, persistent diarrhea, vomiting, rash over the body, or fatigue are not typical teething symptoms. If your child has these symptoms, it’s important to contact your pediatrician.

How to Sooth a Teething Baby

Most teething discomfort can be managed by simple, safe strategies:

• Gently massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger
• Offering a chilled teething ring
• Using a cool, damp washcloth for your baby to chew on

If discomfort is significant, you may consider temporary oral analgesics such as infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, only for infants over 6 months). Stop use after 1 to 2 days.

What to Avoid

• Teething tablets
• Teething gels (benzocaine or lidocaine may be harmful for children at this age)
• Teething necklaces or bracelets (choking hazard)

How Do I Care for My Baby’s New Teeth?

The moment your baby’s first tooth appears, it’s time to start brushing! Brush twice a day using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoridated toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice.

Position your baby in your lap with its head closest to you. Gently lift the lip and use small, gentle circular motions at a 45˚ angle. Be sure to clean all sides of the tooth and along the gumline for two minutes. 

If another adult is available, the “knee-to-knee” position can be very helpful! Sit facing each other with knees touching; your child’ head rests in one adult’s lap while the other stabilizes their legs.

It’s completely normal for little ones to resist brushing at first. Stay calm, confident, and consistent. Sing a lullaby can make brushing feel more playful and help you keep track of time. 

If your child swallows a small amount of toothpaste, the recommended rice-sized smear keeps fluoride exposure within safe and appropriate limits.

When Should We See Your Baby?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting. 

Early visits allow us to:

• Check healthy tooth development
• Discuss feeding and brushing habits
• Provide guidance on fluoride-use
• Answer questions about pacifiers, thumb sucking, and more
• Establish a dental home 

These early visits are gentle, educational, and designed to help your child feel comfortable in the dental setting.