Teething in Babies: Symptoms, Causes, Remedies & When to See a Dentist

What Is Teething?

It is the process by which a baby’s primary (milk) teeth begin to emerge through the gums, usually starting with the lower front teeth.

As these teeth push through, the surrounding gum tissue may become slightly sensitive, leading to mild discomfort.

Tooth eruption can affect each baby differently—some may show minimal signs, while others may appear more uncomfortable during this phase.

key facts:

• Babies have 20 primary teeth in total
• Tooth eruption occurs in stages and typically continues until around age 3 years

When Does Teething Start in Babies?

Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months of age, although the exact timing can vary from one child to another.

Typical eruption order:

• Lower central incisors – 6–10 months
• Upper central incisors – 8–12 months
• Upper lateral incisors – 9–13 months
• Lower lateral incisors – 10–16 months
• First molars (upper and lower) – 13–19 months
• Canines – 16–22 months
• Second molars – 25–33 months

By around 3 years of age, most children have all 20 primary teeth.

While these timelines are typical, variations of a few months are common and usually not a cause for concern.

Common Teething Symptoms in Babies

For many parents, it can be difficult to tell which signs are normal during teeth eruption and which may need closer attention. A study of 1,100 children found that 68% had at least one teething symptom — so while symptoms are common, not every baby experiences them the same way.

Teething symptoms usually begin a few days before a tooth erupts and tend to improve once it breaks through the gum.

Common signs include:

• Excessive drooling
• Swollen, tender, or reddened gums
• Chewing or biting on objects
• Irritability or fussiness
• Mild changes in sleep patterns
• Slight decrease in appetite
• Rubbing of the ear or cheek on the affected side

These symptoms are generally mild and temporary, although the experience can vary from baby to baby. If symptoms seem severe, persistent, or unusual, it’s important to consider causes beyond this developmental phase.

How to Care for Your Baby’s Gums and Teeth During Teething

Good oral care should begin even before the first tooth appears. Keeping your baby’s mouth clean during this phase helps prevent early dental problems and builds healthy habits from the start.

Simple care practices:

• Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeds
• Once the first tooth appears, start brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled age-appropriate baby toothbrush
• Use a smear (rice-sized amount) of fluoride toothpaste
• Once teeth have started to erupt, avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle, especially one containing milk or juice

Establishing these habits early can reduce the risk of Early Childhood Tooth Decay and support healthy tooth development.

How to Soothe Teething Pain Safely

When your baby is uncomfortable, simple, immediate soothing methods can help calm them.

Best Teething Remedies: Safe Ways to Soothe Your Baby

These remedies for babies are simple, safe, and commonly recommended to manage discomfort at home.

Does Teething Cause Fever or Diarrhea? Separating Facts from Myths

Baby teething is often blamed for symptoms that may not actually be related.

When Symptoms May Not Be Due to Teething

It’s important not to assume that all symptoms during this stage are caused by tooth eruption. Some signs may indicate an underlying medical condition.

Contact your pediatrician if your baby has:

• Fever with temperature above 100.4°F (38°C).
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Rash spreading beyond the mouth and chin area
• Persistent irritability that does not improve
• Refusal to feed or difficulty swallowing

When Should You See a Pediatric Dentist for Teething?

While most concerns during this stage can be managed at home, certain situations may require a dental evaluation.

See a pediatric dentist if:

• No teeth have erupted by 18 months (while some variation is normal, this may need evaluation)
• Teeth appear discolored or have unusual spots
• Your baby experiences significant discomfort that does not improve
• You have concerns about your baby’s oral development

It is also recommended to schedule your baby’s first dental visit when the first tooth appears, or no later than their first birthday.

Conclusion

Teething in babies is a natural milestone—but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right remedies, gentle care, and an understanding of what’s normal, most babies move through this phase with minimal difficulty.

The key is not just soothing discomfort, but recognizing when something needs attention. When in doubt, a quick check with your pediatric dentist can offer reassurance and keep your baby’s oral health on the right track.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

• 1.American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. (n.d.). Teething signs, symptoms, and relief.
• 2. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2026). Teething: What parents need to know.
• 3. Cleveland Clinic. (2025). Teething (teething syndrome).
• 4. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2024). Teething: Tips for soothing sore gums. Mayo Clinic.
• 5. WebMD. (2026). Teething in babies: Symptoms and remedies.
• 6. Noor-Mohammed, R., & Basha, S. (2012). Teething disturbances; prevalence of objective manifestations in children under age 4 months to 36 months. Medicina Oral, Patología Oral y Cirugía Bucal, 17(3), e491–e494.