Understanding Baby Teething: Signs, Relief, and Care Tips

Teething is a big step in your baby’s growth. It’s when your baby’s teeth start to come through their gums. This can be an exciting time—but also a hard one. Some babies feel pain, get cranky, or have trouble sleeping. Don’t worry—this is normal!

Understanding Baby Teething: Signs, Relief, and Care Tips

In this blog, we will help you understand:

What teething is

Common signs of teething

Simple ways to help your baby feel better

What is Teething?

Teething usually starts when your baby is between 4 to 7 months old. Some babies get teeth earlier or later—and that’s okay. The bottom front teeth usually come in first.

By age 3, most kids have about 20 baby teeth.

Signs Your Baby is Teething

• Every baby is different. Some show many signs, while others hardly show any. Here are some common signs of teething:

  
  

• Drooling a lot (wet chin or shirt)

  
  

• Chewing on fingers, toys, or anything they can find

  
  

• Swollen or red gums

  
  

• Fussiness or crying more than usual

  
  

• Trouble sleeping

  
  

• Rubbing their cheeks or pulling their ears

  
  

• Mild fever (below 100.4°F or 38°C)

Note: If your baby has a high fever, diarrhea, or rash, talk to your doctor. These are not normal teething signs.

How to Help Your Teething Baby

You can’t stop teething, but you can make your baby feel better. Here are some simple tips:

1. Teething Toys

Give your baby a clean, soft teething toy to chew on. Many are made of rubber or silicone. You can even cool them in the fridge (not freezer!) for extra comfort.

2. Cold Washcloth

Wet a clean washcloth, put it in the fridge, and give it to your baby to chew. The cold helps numb the pain.

3. Massage the Gums

Wash your hands and gently rub your baby’s gums with your finger. This can help reduce pressure and pain.

4. Extra Cuddles and Love

Sometimes, your baby just needs more comfort. Hold them, rock them, or sing to them—it helps more than you think!

5. Pain Relief (if needed)

If your baby is very uncomfortable, ask your doctor about using baby-safe pain medicine like infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Always follow the dosage instructions.

What to Avoid

Don’t freeze teething rings—this can hurt your baby’s gums.

Don’t use teething gels with benzocaine unless your doctor says it’s safe.

Don’t give hard foods like raw carrots to chew—they can be a choking risk.

Caring for Baby Teeth

Once the teeth come in, start taking care of them! Here’s how:

Wipe your baby’s teeth with a soft cloth or baby toothbrush twice a day.

Use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).

No sugary drinks like juice in bottles at bedtime.

Visit the dentist by your baby’s first birthday.

Final Thoughts

Teething can be tough—but it doesn’t last forever. With love, patience, and a few simple tricks, you can help your baby feel more comfortable during this stage. And soon, you'll see that adorable little smile full of tiny teeth!