Teething is an important milestone in your baby’s development, but it can also be a challenging time for both babies and parents. As the first teeth begin to push through the gums, many infants experience discomfort and changes in behavior. Knowing the common signs of teething can help you respond with comfort and care.
When Teething Typically Begins
Most babies start teething between four and seven months of age, though some may begin earlier or later. The lower front teeth usually appear first, followed by the upper front teeth. Teething continues on and off until around age three, when most children have a full set of primary teeth.
Because timing varies widely, changes in behavior often provide the clearest clues that teething has started.
Common Signs of Teething
One of the most noticeable signs of teething is increased drooling. Excess saliva may cause mild skin irritation around the mouth or chin. Babies may also chew on their fingers, toys, or anything else they can grab as pressure helps soothe sore gums.
Irritability and fussiness are also common, especially during the days leading up to a tooth breaking through. Some babies may have trouble sleeping or seem more clingy than usual.
Less Obvious Symptoms Parents May Notice
Teething can sometimes cause swollen or tender gums, which may look slightly red. You might feel a small bump under the gum where a tooth is about to emerge. Changes in appetite can occur as well, with some babies refusing solid foods or nursing less due to gum sensitivity.
While mild temperature changes are sometimes reported, teething does not typically cause a true fever. If your baby has a high fever or severe symptoms, another illness may be the cause.
Safe Ways to Ease Teething Discomfort
There are several gentle methods to help soothe a teething baby. Chilled, not frozen, teething rings can provide relief by numbing sore gums. Gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger can also help ease discomfort.
Offering a cold, damp washcloth to chew on is another simple and effective option. For babies who have started solid foods, cold purees may feel soothing during teething episodes.
What to Avoid During Teething
Certain teething remedies are not recommended. Topical numbing gels containing benzocaine and homeopathic teething tablets may pose safety risks and should be avoided. Teething necklaces or bracelets can also present choking or strangulation hazards.
When in doubt, it’s best to choose simple, safe comfort measures and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms seem severe.
Understanding teething signs can help you support your baby through this normal stage of development.
About the Practice
Let your child’s dental journey take flight at Avion Dental in Dallas. Our amazing pediatric team provides compassionate dental care for patients of all ages, including infants and young children. We emphasize preventive dentistry and early oral health education to support healthy smiles from the very beginning. Through gentle, family-focused care, our team helps parents navigate teething, first dental visits, and every stage of their child’s oral development.
Call us at (972) 807-9887 or request an appointment online.