Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr R Murarji

Teething: What You Need to Know

Teething is a natural part of a baby's development, usually occurring between 6-9 months of age. It happens when growing teeth push through the gums. During this stage, babies may feel irritated or frustrated, drool more, or show a desire to chew on objects.

What Is Teething?

It involves the gradual emergence of teeth through the gums, starting with the lower front teeth, followed by the top middle teeth, and eventually the rest. This process can vary in timing and intensity among babies.

Baby Teething Age: When Do Baby Teeth Erupt?

Teething typically begins between 4 to 7 months of age, but it can vary for each child. Some infants may start teething as early as 3 months, while others might not see their first tooth until after their first birthday. By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth.

Teething Symptoms

Teething symptoms can differ from baby to baby. While many experience mild symptoms, others may have more painful teething. Common signs include:

Teething will not cause illness, but it can sometimes lead to diarrhea or a slight rise in temperature. If your baby has a fever, diarrhea, or other symptoms of illness, consult a pediatrician to rule out underlying conditions like ear, urinary, or chest infections.

Teething Treatment

For many babies, teething causes minimal discomfort, requiring no specific treatment. However, if your baby shows symptoms, consider the following:

For the best treatment for teething, use methods that provide comfort and relief, while avoiding products that may not be effective or safe.

Baby Teething Age Chart

Here's a general timeline for the eruption of baby teeth:

Keep in mind that these are average ranges, and individual development may vary.

Conclusion:

Understanding the teething process helps parents support their babies through this developmental milestone. Recognizing symptoms, providing appropriate remedies, and maintaining oral hygiene are key components. If concerns arise, especially regarding delayed tooth eruption, seeking professional advice ensures your child's dental health is on track.

Frequently asked questions

Can baby teeth affect sleep patterns in infants?

Yes, teething can cause discomfort that disrupts your baby’s sleep. Babies may wake up more frequently at night due to sore or swollen gums. Establishing a calming bedtime routine and using safe teething remedies can help ease nighttime discomfort.

Are fever and diarrhea normal during baby teething?

Mild temperature increases are common during teething but not a true fever. Diarrhea is not directly caused by teething, but increased drooling may affect digestion. If symptoms are severe or persist, consult a pediatrician to rule out infection.

Can breastfeeding continue during teething?

Yes, you can continue breastfeeding during teething. However, some babies may bite due to gum discomfort. Offer a cold teething toy before nursing and gently remove them if biting occurs to encourage better nursing behavior.

How can I tell the difference between teething and other illnesses?

Teething symptoms are usually mild—like drooling, gum swelling, or irritability. High fever, rash, or vomiting are not typical teething symptoms and may indicate another illness. Monitor your baby’s overall health and contact a doctor if unsure.

Is it normal for babies to skip teeth or have a different eruption order?

Yes, eruption patterns can vary slightly from child to child. Some babies may get their lateral incisors before the central ones or skip a tooth temporarily. If there's a long delay or unusual pattern, consult a pediatric dentist.

Can teething cause a loss of appetite in babies?

Yes, some babies eat less when teething due to gum discomfort. Offer softer, chilled foods and stay patient. Appetite usually returns once the tooth erupts or pain subsides.

Frequently Asked Questions