A general guide to navigate the teething period

Teething is a long, non-linear process that can be one of the most disruptive phases of your baby’s first year. While it is a normal developmental milestone, the resulting discomfort often affects the entire family's sleep, feeding, and daily rhythm.

Most babies begin teething around six months, though it is perfectly normal for the first tooth to appear as early as three months or as late as twelve. Usually, the two bottom front teeth (central incisors) arrive first, followed by the top front teeth. By the time your child is three years old, they will likely have a full set of 20 primary teeth. It is important to remember that "teething symptoms" can come and go for weeks before a tooth actually breaks through the gum line.

During this period, you may notice significant changes in how your baby eats. Because their gums are tender and inflamed, the suction of breastfeeding or bottle-feeding can sometimes cause discomfort, leading to "nursing strikes" or fussiness during meals. Conversely, some babies find the pressure of nursing soothing. If your baby has started solids, they may temporarily lose interest in textured foods and prefer cooler, softer options like chilled fruit purees or yogurt.

During the day, you might see increased drooling, which can cause a mild rash on the chin or chest. Keeping the skin dry with a soft cloth and applying a simple barrier balm can help. Your baby will likely have a heightened need to chew on everything: this is their way of applying counter-pressure to the erupting tooth.

Teething pain often feels worse at night when there are fewer distractions. You may experience more frequent night wakings or difficulty getting your baby to settle. While it is tempting to try any "miracle cure", the most effective approach is often extra comfort and consistency. If sleep is heavily impacted, discuss safe dosages of infant pain relief with your pediatrician to help your baby to get through the most acute nights of a breakthrough.

To help soothe sore gums, you can offer:

a rubber teething ring or a clean washcloth for them to gnaw on,

gently massaging your baby's gums with a clean finger,

if your baby is old enough for finger foods, a puree can provide some relief.

At the same time, to avoid any extra complications, it is recommended to disregard:

Teething necklaces as these pose a significant strangulation and choking risk,

Numbing gels because many contain benzocaine, which can be dangerous for infants and is not recommended,

Homeopathic tablets, as some have been found to contain inconsistent amounts of ingredients that can be harmful.

It is a common misconception that teething causes high fevers or diarrhea. While a slight rise in body temperature (a "low-grade" warmth) can occur, a true fever is usually a sign of a viral infection, not teething. If your baby seems inconsolable, has a persistent high fever, or if you notice any unusual sores in their mouth, you must contact your pediatrician. They can help rule out other issues like an ear infection, which can often mimic teething pain because of the way discomfort radiates along the jaw.

Teething is a series of short, intense bursts. By focusing on safe pressure and extra patience, you can help your baby through the discomfort of each new tooth.

A gentle reminder: The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your pediatrician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you are facing a problem that feels sharp, persistent, or overwhelming, reaching out for professional help is a sign of strength.