15 Jan When Do Babies Start Teething? A Complete Guide for Parents
The first milestone in a child’s life is teething. It can be confusing for parents. Parents often wonder: At what age do babies begin teething? Does my baby have teething problems too soon? Too late? What are these symptoms?
Truthfully, teething is different for each baby. While some babies are able to get through teething with little fuss, others have difficulty with drooling and sleepless nights. This phase can be made less stressful by understanding the typical start of teething and what signs to watch for.
This guide will help you understand the teething time line and common symptoms as well as provide you with expert-approved tips for both you and your child to get through this crucial stage.
What Is Teething?
The process of teething is when a baby’s (baby) primary teeth slowly push through the gums. Twenty primary teeth are already present under the gums when a baby is born.
These baby teeth are vital for:
(i) Chewing and nutrition
(ii) Speech development
(iii) Guiding permanent teeth into place
When Do Babies Start Teething?
The average age of teething for babies is between 4 and 7 month. However, this can vary.
The Typical Teething Age
Early teething – From as early as 3 months
Average toothing age: between 4 and 7 months
Late toothing: Between 9-12 months
It’s perfectly normal for some babies to not show their first teeth until they turn one.
Which Teeth Come in First?
Teething follows a predictable pattern.
Common Teething Order
Lower Front teeth (central incisors). Around 6-10 months
Upper Front Teeth – 8-12 Months
Side teeth (lateral incisors). – between 9-16 months
First molars around 13-19 months
Canines – around 16-23 months
Second molars around 23-33 month
Most children will have 20 baby teeth by the age of two and a half to three years
Early Signs of Teething
The first signs of teething can occur up to two weeks before the tooth breaks through your gums.
Common Teething signs
(i) Excessive drooling
(ii) Chewing on toys, clothing, or hands
(iii) Gums that are swollen or tender
(iv) Irritability and fussiness
(v) Sleep patterns may be affected by slight changes
(vi) Reduced appetite
(vii) Rub your cheeks or ears
The severity of symptoms can also vary.
Is Fever a Normal Teething Symptom?
A mild increase in temperature can occur when teething but high fever is not normal.
Important Information
A slight temperature rise (below 38degC/100,4degF) is normal.
When you experience high fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, it is usually an indication of illness, not teething.
Consult a doctor if your child has a high fever or appears unusually ill.
How Long Does Teething Last?
Teething happens in phases over several years.
The tooth can cause pain for:
(i) Few days up to a week prior to eruption
(ii) After breaking through
(iii) Some babies may experience pain intermittently until their baby teeth are all in.
Safe Ways to Soothe a Teething Baby
Simple, safe methods are often the best way to help your baby cope with teething. Simple, safe methods often work best.
Effective Teething Relieving Tips
(i) Teething rings that are chilled (not frozen).
(ii) Gently massage your gums with a clean, dry finger
(iii) Cold washcloths to chew
(iv) Comfort and extra cuddles
Pain relief that is age-appropriate (only when prescribed by a physician)
What to Avoid During Teething
Although some teething remedies seem to be helpful, they are not recommended.
Avoid these
(i) Teething Gels with Benzocaine
(ii) Teething Necklaces (choking Risk)
(iii) Home remedies that are not recommended by medical professionals
(iv) Rub alcohol or herbal substances onto gums
Safety is always first.
When Should You Worry About Late Teething?
It is not uncommon for teething to be delayed. You may wish to consult a doctor if you:
By 18 months, no teeth will appear
Other developmental delays are also possible
The gums may appear to be swollen for prolonged periods without any eruption.
Most often, the cause of delayed tooth-emergence is genetic.
Caring for Baby Teeth Once They Appear
As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, you should start caring for their teeth.
Baby Dental Tips
(i) Use a baby toothbrush to brush your teeth twice a day
(ii) Use a small amount of fluoride-containing toothpaste.
(iii) Avoid sugary drinks that are sold in bottles
(iv) Plan your first dental appointment by the age of one
Healthy baby teeth are the foundation of good oral health throughout life.
Conclusion
When do babies begin teething? Generally, this begins between four and seven months. However, earlier or later timelines are perfectly normal. Teething is an inevitable process that can be uncomfortable and unpredictable. But it’s always temporary.
Parents can support their babies confidently by understanding the signs and symptoms, using safe soothing methods, knowing when to seek out advice, and knowing how to recognize them. You and your child will both get through this phase with patience, comfort and the right care.
FAQs
- When can babies begin teething?
Some babies start teething as young as 3 months.
- Is drooling a common sign of teething?
It can be a sign of teething, but is also common among young babies because of oral development.
- Do teething and sleep regression go hand in hand?
Sleep patterns can be temporarily affected by teething discomfort.
- How can I tell whether my baby is sick or teething?
Teething is not accompanied by high fever symptoms or other severe illnesses.
- How long do teething symptoms last?
The pain usually lasts for a few days both before and after the tooth eruption.
- Do all babies suffer from teething pain?
No. Some babies are less sensitive than others.
- When should I take my baby to the dentist?
Experts recommend that the child should have their first dental appointment by the time they turn one.
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