Teething is one of those baby milestones that can feel exciting and exhausting at the same time. You might be thrilled to see that first tiny tooth coming in, but it often means your baby is fussier, droolier, and more interested in chewing on everything they can get their little hands on.

For many babies, teething starts sometime between 4 and 7 months, though every baby is different. Some babies get their teeth earlier, and others take more time. The first teeth to appear are typically the two front teeth on the bottom or top.

Luckily, teething is normal, manageable, and temporary! You can help your baby get through it with a few simple comforting measures.

Common Signs Your Baby May Be Teething

Teething symptoms and their severity can vary from baby to baby. Some babies seem barely bothered, while others have a harder time.

You may notice:

  • More drooling than usual
  • More chewing on toys, fingers, or fabric
  • Swollen or tender gums
  • Mild fussiness or irritability
  • A slight increase in temperature
  • A mild rash around the mouth, chin, or neck from extra drool

The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that teething may cause mild irritability, drooling, swollen gums, and a desire to chew, but it should not cause a fever over 101°F, diarrhea, or severe crying.

Baby Teething WFMC Health

Symptoms Unrelated to Teething

It is easy to blame rough baby days on teething, but some symptoms might be signs of something else going on.

For example, teething should not cause:

  • High fever
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • A widespread rash
  • Trouble breathing
  • Extreme sleepiness
  • Refusing to eat or drink for long periods
  • Ongoing, inconsolable crying

If your baby has these symptoms, it is a good idea to call your child’s healthcare provider. Babies can get sick around the same age they start teething, so it is important not to assume everything is tooth-related.

How to Soothe Teething Discomfort

You don’t need anything fancy to help your baby feel better while they’re teething. Simple, safe comfort measures often work just fine. You can try:

  • Gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger
  • Offering a firm rubber teething toy.
  • Chilling a teething ring in the refrigerator (do not freeze it)
  • Offering a clean, cool washcloth for your baby to chew on
  • Wiping drool often to help prevent skin irritation
  • Giving extra cuddles, comfort, and patience

Cold can feel soothing on sore gums, but frozen teethers can become too hard and may hurt your baby’s mouth. Stick with cool, not frozen.

What to Avoid During Teething

Some teething products are not recommended because they can be unsafe for babies. Avoid teething necklaces, bracelets, or anklets. Teething jewelry can pose choking or strangulation risks, even when they’re marketed as “natural” or “safe.”

Also avoid using frozen teethers, hard foods that could become a choking risk, or rubbing alcohol as a home remedy. Teething gels or tablets should not be used unless they’re specifically recommended by your healthcare provider.

Caring for New Baby Teeth

Once that first tooth appears, it is time to start caring for it! Baby teeth may be small, but they still need proper dental care. These teeth help your child chew, learn to speak, and hold space for adult teeth later on.

The CDC recommends brushing children’s teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. For young children, only a very small amount of toothpaste is needed.

You can also help protect your baby’s teeth by:

  • Not putting your baby to bed with a bottle
  • Limiting sugary drinks as your child gets older
  • Using a soft baby toothbrush
  • Asking your provider about fluoride
  • Scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when recommended by your provider

These early habits can make dental care feel like a normal part of your child’s routine and reduce dental anxiety as they get older.

When to Call Your Provider

Most teething discomfort can be handled at home, but you know your baby best. Reach out to your baby’s pediatrician if something feels off or if symptoms seem more intense than typical teething.

Call their health care provider if your baby:

  • Has a fever over 101°F
  • Has diarrhea, vomiting, or signs of dehydration
  • Refuses feedings
  • Seems unusually sleepy or difficult to wake
  • Cries for long periods and cannot be comforted
  • Has swollen gums with pus or bleeding
  • Has symptoms that last longer than expected

It is always okay to ask questions, especially when your baby is uncomfortable and you aren’t sure what is normal.

Teething is Temporary

Teething can be messy and tiring, but it’s also a sign that your baby is growing. Some days may be harder than others, and that’s okay. Provide comfort, keep things simple, and watch for symptoms that could point to something more than teething.

With time, those tiny teeth will come in—and before you know it, your baby’s little smile will look a little different.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.