Teething is one of those milestones that every parent hears about, and it often comes with more questions than answers. When will it start? Which tooth comes first? Is my baby's drooling a teething sign or just a normal baby thing? And most importantly, how can you help your little one when they are uncomfortable?
Here is a straightforward look at the baby teething timeline and what you can do to help your baby through it.
When Does Teething Start?
Most babies get their first tooth between 4 and 7 months of age, though some babies start earlier and others not until after their first birthday. Both ends of that spectrum are normal. Some babies are even born with a tooth already in (called a natal tooth), which is rare but not a cause for concern in most cases.
By the time your child is about 3 years old, they will typically have all 20 primary (baby) teeth. That means teething is a process that stretches over a couple of years, though the most intense period is usually during the first year.
The Order Teeth Typically Appear
While every baby is different, teeth generally appear in a fairly predictable order:
- Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth): 6 to 10 months
- Upper central incisors (top front teeth): 8 to 12 months
- Upper lateral incisors (beside top front teeth): 9 to 13 months
- Lower lateral incisors (beside bottom front teeth): 10 to 16 months
- First molars (upper and lower): 13 to 19 months
- Canines (upper and lower): 16 to 23 months
- Second molars (upper and lower): 23 to 33 months
Keep in mind that these ranges are approximate. If your baby's teeth come in a slightly different order or on a different timeline, that is usually nothing to worry about. Talk to your pediatrician or pediatric dentist if you have concerns.
Common Teething Symptoms
Teething affects every baby differently. Some babies breeze through it, while others have a harder time. Common signs of teething include:
- Increased drooling (sometimes a lot more than usual)
- Chewing or gnawing on hands, toys, and anything within reach
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Mild fussiness or irritability
- Slight increase in temperature (but not a true fever)
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Pulling at their ears (sometimes a sign of gum discomfort)
It is worth noting that high fever, diarrhea, and rashes are generally not caused by teething, even though they sometimes happen around the same time. If your baby has any of these symptoms, talk to your pediatrician to rule out other causes.
How to Soothe a Teething Baby
When your baby is uncomfortable from teething, here are some simple ways to help:
- Chilled teething rings. Place a teething ring in the refrigerator (not the freezer) for a gentle cooling effect. The cold helps numb sore gums.
- Cold washcloth. Wet a clean washcloth, wring it out, and put it in the fridge for a few minutes. Your baby can chew on it for relief.
- Gum massage. Gently rub your baby's gums with a clean finger. The pressure can feel soothing.
- Solid teething toys. Look for teething toys made from solid silicone or rubber. Avoid liquid-filled teethers that could break or leak.
- Extra cuddles. Sometimes the best medicine is just being close. Comfort nursing or extra holding time can help a fussy teething baby.
If your baby seems very uncomfortable, talk to your pediatrician about whether an age-appropriate pain reliever is right for your child. Never give medication without your doctor's guidance.
What to Avoid
Some teething remedies that were once popular are no longer recommended:
- Teething necklaces and bracelets (amber, silicone, or wood) pose choking and strangulation risks.
- Numbing gels with benzocaine are not recommended for children under 2 years old by the FDA.
- Homeopathic teething tablets have raised safety concerns and should be discussed with your pediatrician before use.
- Frozen teething toys can be too hard and may hurt your baby's gums. Chilled is better than frozen.
Early Dental Care Tips
Once that first tooth appears, it is time to start basic dental care:
- Clean your baby's tooth with a soft infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
- Brush gently twice a day, especially before bed.
- Schedule your baby's first dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth, whichever comes first.
- Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice, which can contribute to tooth decay.
When to Talk to Your Pediatrician
Talk to your pediatrician or pediatric dentist if:
- Your baby has no teeth by 18 months
- Teeth seem to be coming in with unusual discoloration or shape
- Your baby has a high fever, diarrhea, or a rash that you have been attributing to teething
- Your baby seems to be in significant pain that is not relieved by typical soothing methods
Track Every Tooth with Remi
Log each new tooth as it appears so you have a complete teething record. It is a fun milestone to look back on, and helpful information for dental visits.
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