When Will My Baby Start Teething?

As a parent, one of the exciting milestones to anticipate is your baby’s first tooth. The eruption of those tiny pearly whites is a significant event in your little one’s development. However, every baby is different, and the timing of when they start teething can vary. In this article, we will explore the typical age range for teething and provide some helpful insights for parents.

Learn about the teething process in babies and find out when your little one may start teething. Discover common signs of teething, soothing techniques, and get answers to frequently asked questions.

Understanding the Teething Process

Teething refers to the process of a baby’s teeth breaking through the gums. It usually begins with the lower front teeth, followed by the upper front teeth. Eventually, the molars and canines make their appearance. The teething process can be uncomfortable for babies, leading to symptoms such as increased drooling, irritability, gum swelling, and a desire to chew on objects.

When Does Teething Typically Begin?

While the timing of teething can vary, most babies start teething between the ages of 4 and 7 months. However, it’s important to note that some babies may begin teething as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. The order in which the teeth erupt can also differ from one baby to another.

Signs That Your Baby Is Teething

Babies may exhibit various signs and symptoms when they are teething. These can include:

• Excessive drooling: Your baby may drool more than usual due to increased saliva production.
• Irritability: Teething can be uncomfortable, leading to fussiness and irritability.
• Gum swelling and sensitivity: The gums may appear red and swollen, and your baby may experience discomfort when pressure is applied to them.
• Biting and chewing: Babies often find relief by chewing on objects or by biting down on their fingers.
• Changes in appetite: Some babies may temporarily lose their appetite or become picky eaters during teething.

Tips to Help Soothe Your Teething Baby

To alleviate your baby’s teething discomfort, consider trying these soothing techniques:

1. Gentle gum massage: Use a clean finger or a cool, damp cloth to massage your baby’s gums gently.
2. Chilled teething rings or toys: Cold objects can provide relief, so give your baby a chilled teething ring or toy to chew on.
3. Cold washcloth: Wet a clean washcloth with cold water and let your baby chew on it.
4. Avoid numbing gels or teething tablets: It’s best to avoid using numbing gels or teething tablets, as they can have potential risks and may not be effective.

Remember, every baby is different, and it’s essential to find the techniques that work best for your little one. Consult with your pediatrician if your baby seems to be experiencing severe discomfort or if you have any concerns.

The teething process is a natural part of your baby’s development, and while the timing can vary, most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months of age. Recognizing the signs of teething and employing soothing techniques can help alleviate your baby’s discomfort during this exciting milestone. 

Remember to consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns or questions regarding your baby’s teething journey.

Q: When do babies typically start teething? 

A: Most babies start teething between the ages of 4 and 7 months. However, it can vary, and some babies may start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.

Q: What are the signs that my baby is teething? 

A: Signs of teething can include excessive drooling, gum swelling and sensitivity, irritability, biting and chewing on objects, and changes in appetite.

Q: How can I soothe my teething baby’s discomfort?

A: Some soothing techniques for teething babies include gentle gum massage, providing chilled teething rings or toys to chew on, and offering a cold washcloth for them to bite on.

Q: Can I use numbing gels or teething tablets to relieve my baby’s teething pain? 

A: It’s generally recommended to avoid using numbing gels or teething tablets, as they may carry potential risks and might not be effective.

Q: What if my baby seems to be experiencing severe discomfort during teething?

A: If your baby is experiencing severe discomfort or if you have any concerns, it’s best to consult with your pediatrician for personalized guidance and advice.

Q: Is the order in which the teeth erupt the same for every baby? 

A: No, the order in which the teeth erupt can vary from one baby to another. However, it usually begins with the lower front teeth, followed by the upper front teeth, and then the molars and canines.

Q: Are there any long-term effects of teething on my baby’s oral health? 

A: Teething itself does not have any long-term effects on your baby’s oral health. However, it’s important to establish good oral hygiene habits once the teeth have erupted, such as brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and scheduling regular dental check-ups.

Q: Should I be concerned if my baby hasn’t started teething yet? 

A: If your baby hasn’t started teething by 12 months of age, it’s advisable to consult with your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues and ensure proper development.

Q: Can teething cause fever in babies? 

A: While teething can cause some discomfort, it typically does not cause a fever. If your baby develops a fever during the teething process, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician to determine the underlying cause.

Q: How long does the teething process usually last? 

A: The teething process is different for every baby. It can take several months for all the primary teeth to come in, with most children having a complete set of 20 primary teeth by the age of 2 or 3.