Your baby’s first tooth is a big milestone, but it’s often met with a healthy amount of drool, fussiness, and plenty of chewing. At Children’s Dental Center in Memphis, we’ve written up a guide to teach you all about teething so you know what to expect, how to comfort your child, and when to see a pediatric dentist.
Understanding the Teething Process
Teething is the natural process of primary (baby) teeth emerging through your baby’s gums. This can start as early as 4 months old, but most babies get their first tooth between 6 and 10 months. By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 baby teeth.
During teething, your baby may experience gum tenderness, irritability, drooling, and a strong urge to chew. These symptoms are temporary but can be uncomfortable without the right soothing strategies.
Teething Timeline
Here’s a general guide to when teeth usually appear:
- 6–10 months: Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth)
- 8–12 months: Upper central incisors
- 9–13 months: Upper lateral incisors
- 10–16 months: Lower lateral incisors
- 13–19 months: First molars
- 16–23 months: Canines
- 23–33 months: Second molars
Remember, every child is different. If your child’s teething pattern is earlier or later, it’s usually not a cause for concern.
How to Help Soothe Teething Symptoms
You can make teething more comfortable by trying these parent-approved strategies from Children’s Dental Center:
- Offer a chilled (not frozen) teething ring – The cool temperature eases gum inflammation and provides gentle pressure that soothes sore gums. Let your baby gnaw on the ring for short periods to help ease their discomfort.
- Massage their gums – Wash your hands thoroughly, then gently rub your baby’s gums using a clean finger. This direct contact can provide comforting counterpressure and ease the throbbing sensation they may feel.
- Use a soft, damp washcloth – Chill a clean washcloth in the refrigerator for added relief. Let your baby chew on it under supervision. The soft texture is safe for tender gums and can also absorb drool.
- Serve chilled foods – If your baby has started solids, offering cold foods like applesauce, pureed fruits, or yogurt can soothe sore gums while giving them something nutritious and easy to swallow.
- Distract with play – Gentle distractions like cuddling, reading a book, or offering a favorite toy can redirect your baby’s attention and help them cope with discomfort.
- Consider over-the-counter remedies – Consult your pediatric dentist before using any teething gels or medications. Some remedies may contain ingredients not recommended for infants.
- Keep drool under control – Teething often causes excessive drooling, which can lead to skin irritation. Use absorbent bibs, change them often, and gently wipe your baby’s chin and cheeks to prevent rashes or chafing.
FAQ: All About Teething
Q: When should my baby have their first dental visit?
A: Schedule an appointment at Children’s Dental Center within 6 months of the first tooth or by their first birthday.
Q: How long does each tooth take to come in?
A: It can take a few days to a week for a tooth to fully emerge once it starts breaking through the gums.
Q: Can teething cause a fever?
A: Mild temperature increases are possible, but a high fever is likely due to illness, not teething. Call your pediatrician if you’re unsure.
Q: Why is my baby drooling so much?
A: Increased saliva production is a normal part of teething and helps protect gums.
Q: Should I start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears?
A: Yes! Use a baby toothbrush with soft bristles and plain water until age 2.
Q: Can teething cause diarrhea?
A: Teething itself doesn’t cause diarrhea, but chewing on toys and hands can introduce bacteria. Keep items clean.
Q: What if my baby’s teeth erupt crooked?
A: Baby teeth often shift as more come in, so early crookedness isn’t always permanent. Orthodontics are always an option once they reach age seven or so if there’s severe misalignment over time. You can also find out more about baby teeth in this blog!
Q: Is thumb-sucking okay during teething?
A: It’s a natural comfort method, but prolonged habits beyond age 3 can affect tooth alignment.
Final Thoughts on Teething
Dr. Rowland, Dr. Selecman, Dr. Daniel, Dr. Greene, Dr. Church, and Dr. Clark all know that teething can be challenging, but it’s also an exciting sign of growth. By understanding the timeline, recognizing symptoms, and using effective soothing techniques, you can make the process easier for both you and your child.
When questions come up, call us at Children’s Dental Center in Arlington, Collierville, and Midtown for expert pediatric dental care that keeps your child smiling from the very start!