When Do Infants Start Teething: A Timeline for New Parents
Wondering when your baby will start showing those first signs of teething? You’re not alone in this milestone watch. Most babies begin teething around 6 months of age, though there’s a wide range of what’s normal. Some babies may start teething as early as 3 months, while others might not show their first tooth until after their first birthday.
Every baby’s teething journey is different. You might notice your little one drooling more, being fussy, or wanting to chew on things before you actually see a tooth. These early signs sometimes appear weeks before a tooth breaks through the gum. The bottom front teeth (lower central incisors) are typically the first to appear, followed by the top front teeth.
Knowing when teething typically starts can help you prepare for this important developmental stage. Having teething remedies ready before your baby needs them can make the process easier for both of you. Remember that while teething can cause some discomfort, extreme symptoms like high fever or diarrhea aren’t normal teething signs and should prompt a call to your doctor.
Key Takeaways
- Most babies start teething around 6 months, but it can happen anywhere between 3 and 12 months of age.
- Common teething signs include drooling, fussiness, and a desire to chew on objects before teeth actually appear.
- You can help ease teething discomfort with safe remedies like clean teething toys and gentle gum massage.
Understanding Teething
Teething is the process where a baby’s first teeth emerge through the gums. This natural development can cause discomfort for infants but follows a predictable pattern most parents can learn to recognize.
Stages of Tooth Development
Baby teeth actually begin forming before birth. Tooth buds develop during pregnancy, setting the stage for the eventual appearance of teeth. The process happens in this order:
- Formation stage: Tooth development begins in the womb
- Eruption preparation: Teeth move toward the surface of the gums
- Breaking through: Teeth push through the gum tissue
- Full emergence: The crown of the tooth becomes visible
Most babies get their teeth in pairs. The bottom front teeth (lower central incisors) typically appear first, followed by the top front teeth (upper central incisors). By age 3, most children have all 20 of their primary teeth.
Recognizing the Signs of Teething
You might notice several teething symptoms when your baby starts cutting teeth:
- Increased drooling
- More biting and chewing on toys, fingers, or other objects
- Swollen, tender gums
- Irritability or fussiness
- Trouble sleeping
- Refusing food
- Rubbing their face
Some babies might also have a slight temperature rise, though high fever isn’t a normal teething symptom. Every baby experiences teething differently. Some may show many signs while others might seem to get teeth with hardly any symptoms at all.
Typical Age for Teething to Begin
While teething timing varies widely, most babies start teething around 6 months of age. Some babies may get their first tooth as early as 3-4 months, while others might not see any teeth until after their first birthday.
This timeline shows when teeth typically appear:
- 4-7 months: Bottom front teeth (lower central incisors)
- 8-12 months: Top front teeth (upper central incisors)
- 9-16 months: Teeth beside the top front teeth (lateral incisors)
- 10-20 months: First molars and canines
By age 3, most children have all 20 primary teeth. Remember that early or late teething is usually nothing to worry about, as each child develops at their own pace.
Managing Teething Discomfort
Teething can be uncomfortable for babies, but there are several effective ways to help ease their pain. From safe chewing options to appropriate medications, you can find solutions that work for your little one.
Safe Teething Remedies
Cold items can help numb your baby’s gums and reduce inflammation. Try a clean, cold washcloth (refrigerated, not frozen) for your baby to chew on. Many parents find that chilled (not frozen) teething rings work well.
For babies over 6 months, cold foods can offer relief. Cold cucumber or carrot sticks can soothe sore gums, but always supervise your child to prevent choking.
Silicone teething mitts are helpful since babies often put their hands in their mouths. These fit over your baby’s hand and provide a safe chewing surface.
Avoid amber teething necklaces as they pose strangulation and choking risks. The FDA also warns against teething tablets containing belladonna and products with benzocaine, which can cause serious side effects.
Pain Relief Medications
For significant discomfort, certain medications may help. Over-the-counter options like acetaminophen (paracetamol) can relieve teething pain and reduce inflammation.
Ibuprofen is another option for babies over 6 months old. Always use the correct dosage based on your baby’s weight and follow package instructions carefully.
Important safety notes:
- Use medication only when truly needed
- Never apply pain-relief gels with benzocaine to gums
- Avoid homeopathic teething tablets
- Use medicines made specifically for infants
Talk to your pediatrician before giving any medication to make sure it’s appropriate for your baby’s age and condition.
Soothing Techniques and Toys
Gentle gum massage can provide immediate relief. Use a clean finger to rub your baby’s gums for 1-2 minutes when they’re irritable from teething.
Distraction works well too. When your baby is fussy, try engaging them with a favorite toy or activity to take their mind off the discomfort.
Soft silicone teething toys come in different textures that massage gums while your baby chews. Look for BPA-free options that are easy to clean.
For extra soothing, try:
- Gentle rocking or swinging
- Extra cuddles and attention
- Soft, calming music
- A cool room for sleeping
Many babies become irritable during teething and may want to nurse or feed more often for comfort. Extra patience during this time can help both you and your baby manage the discomfort better.
Maintaining Routine and Wellness
Teething doesn’t have to disrupt your baby’s overall health and daily schedule. Good habits during this time can help manage discomfort while supporting your child’s development.
Incorporating Teething into Daily Routine
When your baby starts teething at around 6 months, keeping a consistent schedule becomes even more important. Regular nap times and bedtime routines help minimize irritability that often accompanies teething pain.
Keep teething toys in multiple locations—diaper bag, crib, play area—so they’re always within reach when needed. Silicone or rubber teethers can be refrigerated (not frozen) for added relief.
For babies experiencing dribbling, keep clean bibs handy and change them frequently to prevent skin irritation. A gentle face wipe after feeding helps keep the chin area dry and comfortable.
Morning check-ins can be helpful. Take a quick look at your baby’s gums during morning routines to note any new developments or areas that seem tender.
Diet and Nutrition During Teething
Your baby’s eating habits might change when teeth are coming in. Cold foods can offer comfort—try chilled (not frozen) fruit in a mesh feeder or cold yogurt for babies already eating solids.
Stay patient during feeding times. A fussy baby might refuse to eat when gums hurt, so offer smaller, more frequent meals if your child seems uncomfortable during regular feeding times.
Keep these foods handy for teething relief:
- Cold applesauce
- Chilled pureed vegetables
- Yogurt (for babies over 6 months)
- Smooth pureed fruits
Avoid hard foods that could break off and cause choking. Also, steer clear of teething biscuits with added sugars that might harm emerging teeth.
When to Consult a Pediatric Dentist
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit by age 1 or when the first tooth appears. This early visit establishes a dental home for your child.
Contact your pediatric dentist if you notice:
- Delayed teething (no teeth by 15 months)
- Teeth coming in very discolored
- Extreme pain not relieved by usual methods
- Signs of infection like fever or swollen gums
A pediatric dentist can show you proper cleaning techniques for those first teeth. Even with just one or two teeth, gentle cleaning with a soft infant toothbrush or clean cloth helps establish good habits.
Remember that occasional fussiness is normal during teething, but persistent high fever, diarrhea, or excessive crying warrants a call to your doctor, as these symptoms are not typically associated with normal teething.
What is the duration of the teething phase for infants?
The teething process usually lasts until your child is around 2-3 years old, when all 20 primary teeth have come in.
Each tooth may cause discomfort for a few days before it breaks through the gum and a few days after. The most intense symptoms usually last about 1-2 weeks per tooth.
The teething timeline varies by child, but most babies have their complete set of primary teeth by age 3. The process happens in stages, with breaks between the eruption of new teeth.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice.