Teething can disrupt sleep, feeding and even the calmest household. If your baby suddenly starts drooling, chewing on everything or acting more irritable than usual, a new tooth may be on the way. The good news is that teething is a normal stage of development, and most discomfort can be managed safely at home.

Knowing what is normal, what may help and when to call your child’s healthcare provider can give you peace of mind.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months old, although every child develops on a different schedule. Some babies get their first tooth earlier, while others may not have a tooth appear until after their first birthday.

The two lower front teeth usually appear first, followed by the two upper front teeth. By around age 3, most children have all 20 primary teeth.

What Are the Most Common Signs of Teething?

Teething symptoms can vary from one child to another. Some babies show very few signs, while others have several days of mild discomfort as a tooth moves through the gums.

• Increased drooling
• A strong urge to chew or bite
• Tender, swollen or irritated gums
• Rubbing the gums, cheeks or face
• Mild fussiness or irritability
• Temporary changes in sleep or appetite

Drool can also irritate the skin around your baby’s mouth or chin. Gently pat the area dry and use a baby-safe barrier ointment if needed.

Can Teething Cause a Fever or Diarrhea?

Teething may happen at the same time as a mild illness, but it does not cause a true fever, diarrhea, vomiting, a runny nose or significant crying. If your child has these symptoms, do not assume teething is the cause.

Contact your pediatrician if your baby has a fever, persistent diarrhea, poor fluid intake, unusual sleepiness, severe pain or other symptoms that concern you. This is especially important for very young babies.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby Safely

A few simple, medication-free options can often provide relief:

• Massage the gums: Wash your hands, then gently rub the sore area with a clean finger using light pressure.
• Offer a chilled teether: Use a firm rubber teething ring or a clean, damp washcloth chilled in the refrigerator. Avoid items frozen solid, which may injure sensitive gums.
• Keep your baby’s face dry: Wipe away excess drool gently to help prevent irritation around the mouth and chin.
• Offer cool water when age-appropriate: Babies who are already drinking from a cup may find cool water soothing. Ask your pediatrician if you are unsure what is appropriate for your child’s age.
• Ask before using pain medicine: If your baby remains uncomfortable, ask your pediatrician or pediatric dentist whether an age-appropriate dose of infant Tylenol is needed. Always use the dose recommended for your child’s current weight and age.

Teething Remedies to Avoid

Some widely marketed teething products can be unsafe for babies and young children. Avoid:

• Numbing gels or creams containing benzocaine or lidocaine, which can cause serious side effects and offer little benefit.
• Amber teething necklaces, bracelets or anklets, which can create choking and strangulation hazards.
• Frozen-solid teethers or ice applied directly to the gums.
• Teethers dipped in sugar, honey or other sweet substances, which can increase cavity risk. Honey should not be given to babies younger than 12 months.
• Hard foods or small objects that could become choking hazards.

The FDA recommends using simple options such as gentle gum massage or a firm rubber teether instead of topical numbing products or teething jewelry.

When Should I Call a Pediatric Dentist About Teething?

Contact a pediatric dentist if your child’s pain seems severe, symptoms do not improve, a tooth appears damaged or discolored, or you have concerns about how the teeth are erupting. Call your pediatrician for fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, trouble breathing, unusual lethargy or signs that your baby may be ill.

You do not have to wait for a problem to schedule your baby’s first dental visit. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a visit when the first tooth appears or no later than the first birthday. This early appointment allows the pediatric dental team to check development, answer teething and brushing questions, and help your family build healthy habits from the start.

Caring for Your Baby’s First Teeth

Once the first tooth appears, brush twice a day with a soft, age-appropriate toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. Continue helping your child brush as more teeth come in.

If your baby is teething or ready for a first dental visit, the team at Pediatric Dentistry is here to help families in Cheyenne, Laramie and Scottsbluff. Request an appointment today.