A Parent’s Roadmap to Teething: Symptoms and Proven Remedies

Has your baby been extra fussy lately? Maybe you’ve noticed their gums are swollen and they’re drooling more than usual. These are signs of teething. Teething is a stressful time for babies and their caregivers. Looking for relief? We’ve compiled this roadmap to guide you through it.  

Symptoms of Teething

• Excessive drooling- this can cause a rash on the chin or the chest
• Irritability- expect increased crying
• Chewing on hard objects- they are seeking relief
• Swollen, tender, red gums- gums will turn red when the tooth below is close to erupting
• Low-grade fever- should be less than 100.4 degrees 
• Pulling on ears or cheeks- facial rubbing on the side where the tooth is coming in
• Appetite changes- your child may refuse to eat or eat less
• Disrupted sleep- your child may be up more or have trouble sleeping

Teething Timeline

The first teeth to come in are generally the bottom incisors, or front teeth, which happens between four and ten months of age. Teething discomfort starts a few days before the tooth comes in. Generally, each teething episode lasts 3-8 days. The last set of molars will come at around age 2 ½. Since teething is something that will cause your baby discomfort, it’s good to be prepared to handle this stage. In general, the first teeth that erupt, and the molars, cause the most pain. You can check out this helpful diagram to see more about the teething timeline for individual teeth. 

Remedies According to Symptom

Excessive drooling– All the drool from teething can cause a rash, prevent this by wiping your baby’s mouth regularly and having them wear a bib. Apply a gentle barrier cream, like Aquaphor, to help with sore skin. 

Irritability– Give your baby comfort and reassurance by loving on them extra with cuddles, and by spending extra time with them, you may alleviate some of their fussiness.

Chewing on hard objects- Lean into your baby’s desire to chew and gnaw. This helps relieve pressure under the gums. Provide them with refrigerated (not frozen) teething toys made of natural rubber or BPA-free silicone. Do not use liquid or gel-filled rings, necklaces, or numbing gels and make sure all teethers are a safe size, so as not to be swallowed.

Swollen, tender, red gums– Massage their gums with a clean finger or damp washcloth for a couple of minutes a few times a day. Provide safe teething toys.

Low-grade fever– Offer plenty of age-appropriate fluids. Consider a pediatrician-approved dose of Tylenol. If their fever is above 100.4 degrees or is accompanied by other symptoms of illness, see a doctor. 

Pulling on ears or cheeks– When the gums experience pain, it can travel to the cheek and ear. Gum massage can help. Be aware that ear infections can also cause ear pulling. 

Appetite changes– Children can lose interest in feedings due to anticipated pain. If your child is eating less, break meals up into smaller portions and increase frequency to prevent weight loss. If they are eating solids, prepare soft and liquid foods. Avoid overly hot or cold foods. 

Disrupted sleep– Maintain calming routines before bed during this time. If they wake up upset, give them lots of love and cuddles. Tylenol can be helpful at night for teething discomfort to help your child sleep through the night with minimal pain. 

What to Avoid When Your Child Is Teething

• Medications applied directly to the gums, like benzocaine or lidocaine (such as brands like Orajel)
• Homeopathic teething tablets and gels containing belladonna
• Teething necklaces and beads (choking hazards)
• Teething toys filled with liquid

Symptoms that Mean You Need to See A Doctor:

• Diarrhea
• A fever of 100.4 Fahrenheit or higher
• High levels of mucus and coughing
• Non-stop crying
• Refuses to drink or eat
• Vomiting

These symptoms indicate that something bigger is going on, unrelated to teething. Don’t ignore these symptoms if they occur, or attribute them to teething. It’s always best to consult with a pediatrician if you have concerns about your child’s health. 

When Is It Time to Visit the Pediatric Dentist?

We recommend taking your child to their first dental visit once their first tooth erupts or by age one, whichever comes first. Some children will not have their first tooth come in until they are 14 months, while others will have their first tooth at 4 months. Every child is different, and your pediatric dentist can talk to you about what’s normal and what to expect during the teething process. Ready for that first dental milestone? Schedule your baby’s first dental appointment here. 

FAQS About Teething

When does it start?

Teeth start appearing as early as four months, but some children won’t see their first tooth until age 1.

When does it end?

Your child should have a full set of 20 primary teeth by age 2.5.

What are the symptoms?

Excessive drooling, irritability, chewing on hard objects, very low-grade fever, pulling on ears or cheeks, appetite changes, disrupted sleep, and occasional coughing or gagging can all be symptoms of teething.

Does teething cause fever?

While your child may experience a slightly elevated temperature (below 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit), high fever, vomiting, or diarrhea warrants a doctor visit. 

How can I soothe my baby?

Rub their gums gently with a clean finger or damp cloth, give them appropriate teething toys, offer cool, unfrozen items, and give them lots of love.

What should be avoided?

Homeopathic teething tablets that contain belladonna, benzocaine, and lidocaine gels (such as Orajel), as well as teething necklaces or beads, should all be avoided.

When should I take my baby to the doctor?

See a doctor if your baby has a high fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.