The sudden shift from a contented baby to a fussy, drooling, and sleepless little one can leave any parent feeling helpless and exhausted. You find yourself wondering: Is this just a phase? Could they be sick? Or is this the beginning of the great teething adventure? These are common questions we hear from families across Port Macquarie, and knowing when do babies start teething is the first step towards finding relief-for both you and your bub.
As your trusted family dental team, we’re here to provide the compassionate care and expert advice you need. In this complete guide, we’ll help you confidently identify the tell-tale signs of teething, understand the typical timeline for those first precious teeth, and discover safe, effective remedies to soothe your baby’s discomfort. You’ll gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly how to care for your little one during this important developmental milestone.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the typical timeline for when do babies start teething-usually between 4 and 7 months-and learn why every baby’s journey is unique.
- Confidently identify the most common signs of teething, from increased drooling to irritability, so you can know for sure what’s happening.
- Discover safe, dentist-approved remedies to soothe your baby’s sore gums and provide gentle, effective relief at home.
- Learn the crucial steps for caring for your baby’s first tooth to set the foundation for a lifetime of excellent oral health.
The Teething Timeline: What to Expect and When
One of the most common questions new parents ask is, “when do babies start teething?” While every child follows their own unique schedule, most babies will sprout their first tooth between 4 and 7 months of age. This marks the beginning of a milestone journey where your child will eventually develop a full set of 20 primary teeth, also known as baby teeth. Understanding this timeline can help you prepare for the signs and provide gentle, compassionate care.
For a clear visual guide on what to expect, this helpful video provides an excellent overview of the teething process and symptoms.
Average Teething Age Range
The most common time for that first little tooth to appear is around 6 months old. However, the normal range is quite broad, typically spanning from 4 to 10 months. It’s important to remember that this is simply a guideline. Some infants may start earlier, while others may not get their first tooth until after their first birthday. In very rare instances, a baby may even be born with one or two teeth (natal teeth). The key is to understand that the overall teething process is more important than the exact timing.
Baby Tooth Eruption Chart (Order of Appearance)
While the timing varies, the order in which baby teeth emerge is generally predictable. This sequence helps create the proper spacing for their future adult teeth. Here is the typical order of appearance:
- Lower Central Incisors (Bottom Front): Usually the first to arrive, around 6-10 months.
- Upper Central Incisors (Top Front): Follow shortly after, around 8-12 months.
- Lateral Incisors (Either Side of Front Teeth): The upper pair typically appears around 9-13 months, with the lower pair following at 10-16 months.
- First Molars (Back Teeth): These larger teeth emerge around 13-19 months.
- Canines (Pointed Teeth): Appear between the incisors and molars, around 16-22 months.
- Second Molars (Very Back Teeth): The final set arrives around 25-33 months.
By the time your child is about 3 years old, you can expect them to have their complete set of 20 primary teeth, paving the way for a healthy, happy smile.
Recognising the Signs: 10 Common Symptoms of Teething
One of the most common questions we hear from parents, right after “when do babies start teething?”, is “how can I be sure this is what’s happening?” It can be distressing to see your little one in discomfort, and it’s natural to want a clear answer. While every baby experiences this milestone differently, there are several tell-tale signs. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) provides an excellent overview of the common symptoms of teething, which often appear in combination.
We understand this can be a challenging phase. Recognising these signs is the first step toward providing gentle, compassionate relief for your child.
Classic Teething Symptoms
- Excessive Drooling: Prepare for the waterworks! Teething stimulates saliva production, leading to constant drool. This can sometimes cause a harmless rash on their chin, cheeks, and neck.
- Swollen and Tender Gums: If you can get a quick peek, you may notice your baby’s gums look red, swollen, or even have a small bluish cyst where a tooth is about to erupt.
- A Constant Urge to Chew: Teething babies will try to gnaw on anything they can get their hands on-toys, fingers, or even your shoulder. The counter-pressure helps relieve the ache in their gums.
- Increased Irritability: Discomfort from sore gums can make even the happiest baby fussy, cranky, or prone to crying spells with no obvious cause.
Behavioural and Other Physical Signs
- Disrupted Sleep: The pain doesn’t stop at bedtime. Teething discomfort can interrupt naps and nighttime sleep for both baby and parents.
- Rubbing Cheeks or Pulling Ears: Pain in the gums can radiate to the cheeks and ears. You might notice your baby pulling at their ear or rubbing their face on the same side as an erupting tooth.
- Refusing Food: Sucking can increase pressure and soreness in the gums, leading some babies to refuse the breast or bottle, or lose interest in solid foods.
- A Slight Rise in Temperature: Some babies experience a very low-grade temperature (under 38°C) due to gum inflammation. However, this should not be a high fever.
Teething Myths vs. Facts: What Not to Worry About
It’s crucial to differentiate normal teething symptoms from signs of illness. While it’s tempting to blame every symptom on teething, certain signs are red flags. Teething does not cause high fevers (above 38°C), diarrhoea, or vomiting. These are more likely symptoms of an underlying infection or illness. If your baby is experiencing these more severe symptoms, it is essential to put aside the question of when do babies start teething and consult your GP for a professional diagnosis.
Safe & Effective Ways to Soothe Your Baby’s Teething Pain
Watching your little one in discomfort is challenging for any parent. While knowing when do babies start teething is the first step, the next is having a trusted plan to manage their symptoms. As your family’s dental partner, we prioritise your baby’s safety and well-being. Before reaching for medication, we recommend trying several gentle, dentist-approved methods to provide immediate and effective relief.
Dentist-Approved At-Home Comfort Measures
Every baby is unique, so it may take some experimentation to find what works best. These simple, non-medicinal approaches are often the most effective ways to soothe your baby’s teething pain and are completely safe to try at home.
- Gentle Gum Massage: With a clean finger or a soft, damp washcloth, gently rub your baby’s sore gums. The counter-pressure can provide significant relief from the ache of an emerging tooth.
- Chilled Teething Toys: Offer a solid silicone or rubber teething ring that has been chilled in the refrigerator (not the freezer). The cold helps to numb the gums and reduce inflammation.
- A Cold Washcloth: A simple, clean washcloth soaked in cold water and wrung out can be a perfect chewing object. It’s soft, safe, and the cold provides a soothing sensation.
- Cool, Soft Foods: If your baby has started on solid foods, offering cool items like unsweetened yoghurt or pureed fruits can be both comforting and nutritious.
What to Avoid: Unsafe Teething ‘Remedies’
In your search for solutions, you may encounter products that pose serious health risks. At Star Dental Care, we strongly advise against the following for the health and safety of your child:
- Teething Necklaces: Amber, silicone, or wooden necklaces are significant choking and strangulation hazards and have no proven scientific benefit.
- Numbing Gels or Creams: Avoid over-the-counter teething gels containing benzocaine or belladonna. These ingredients can have dangerous side effects in infants, including a rare but serious condition that reduces oxygen in the blood.
- Hard, Frozen Items: While cold is good, frozen is not. Giving a baby a frozen teething ring or frozen foods can be too hard for their delicate gums and may cause bruising or damage.
- Homeopathic Teething Tablets: The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia has issued warnings about some homeopathic teething products due to inconsistent ingredients and potential toxicity. It is safest to avoid them.
Caring for That First Tooth (and Beyond)
The excitement of seeing that first little tooth can quickly turn into a new question for parents: “What now?” While the focus has been on when do babies start teething, the eruption of that first tooth marks a crucial transition. It’s the beginning of a lifelong journey of oral health, and starting early with gentle, consistent care sets the foundation for a healthy smile for years to come. Here at Star Dental Port, we believe that excellent dental habits start from day one.
How to Clean Your Baby’s First Teeth
Establishing a cleaning routine early is key to preventing decay and helping your child become comfortable with daily brushing. Follow these simple, professional steps:
- Before Teeth Erupt: Gently wipe your baby’s gums once or twice a day with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze. This clears away bacteria and gets them used to the sensation of oral cleaning.
- Once the First Tooth Appears: Switch to a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with a small head. Use a tiny smear of low-fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a single grain of rice.
- Establish a Routine: Brush gently twice a day, focusing on the time after their last feed and before bedtime. Make it a positive and calm experience.
Nutrition for Healthy Tooth Development
What your baby eats and drinks plays a significant role in the health of their new teeth. To protect their emerging smile, be mindful of the following:
- Avoid Bottles in Bed: Never put your baby to sleep with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice. The sugars in these liquids can pool around the teeth, leading to a condition known as “baby bottle tooth decay.”
- Transition to a Cup: Encourage your child to drink from a cup by their first birthday. This prevents liquids from bathing the front teeth for extended periods.
- Limit Sugary Foods: As your child begins eating solids, offer tooth-friendly snacks like cheese, vegetables, and fruit. Limit sugary biscuits, juices, and processed snacks.
The Importance of the First Dental Visit
The Australian Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental visit around their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth emerging. This initial appointment is a gentle introduction to a stress-free dental environment. It allows our compassionate team to ensure your child’s oral development is on track and provide you with personalised advice. Scheduling a professional dental check-up early is the best way to partner with us in protecting your child’s smile for life.
When to See a Dentist for Teething Concerns
Watching your baby get their first tooth is a milestone, but it can also bring a lot of questions. While the topic of when do babies start teething is common, it’s just as important to know when professional advice is needed. For the vast majority of infants, teething discomfort is temporary and can be safely managed at home with simple remedies. However, your parental intuition is powerful; if something feels wrong, it’s always best to seek an expert opinion.
Signs It’s Time to Call a Professional
While some fussiness is normal, certain signs indicate it’s time to consult your family dentist. Trust and reassurance are key, and a professional check-up can provide peace of mind. Please contact us if you notice any of the following:
- Extreme or inconsolable pain: If your baby is crying constantly and cannot be soothed by typical teething remedies, it could signal an underlying issue that needs attention.
- Signs of decay on new teeth: As soon as a tooth erupts, it’s susceptible to decay. Look for any chalky white spots or brown or black stains on the tooth surface.
- A tooth coming in crooked or discoloured: If a new tooth appears grey, very yellow, or is emerging at an unusual angle, a dental assessment is recommended.
- No teeth by 18 months: Most babies have at least one tooth by their first birthday. If your child has no teeth by 18 months of age, it’s wise to schedule a visit to rule out any developmental concerns.
Your Family’s Partner in Dental Health
At Star Dental Port, we understand that your child’s health is your top priority. Our team specialises in providing gentle, compassionate dental care for children in a positive and stress-free environment. We believe in building a foundation of trust from the very first visit, ensuring your child feels safe and comfortable with us.
From answering questions about when do babies start teething to performing their first check-up, we are here to support your family’s oral health journey. If you have any concerns at all, we encourage you to schedule a new patient exam with our friendly Port Macquarie team. We’re here to help.
Your Partner in Your Baby’s First Smiles
Navigating the teething phase is a significant milestone for you and your little one. While the exact answer to when do babies start teething can vary from child to child, you are now equipped with the knowledge to recognise the common signs and provide safe, effective relief. Remember, understanding this natural process is the first step to managing it with confidence and care, turning a potentially challenging time into a memorable journey.
As those precious first teeth emerge, establishing a positive foundation for lifelong oral health is the next vital step. At Star Dental Port, we specialise in creating a welcoming and stress-free environment for even our youngest patients. Trusted by the Port Macquarie community for over 21 years, our award-winning family dental care is built on a compassionate, gentle approach for all ages.
Give your child the gift of excellent dental care from the very beginning. Book your child’s first gentle check-up with our caring Port Macquarie team. We look forward to welcoming your family and celebrating this exciting new chapter with you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baby Teething
Does teething cause a high fever or diarrhoea?
This is a common concern for parents. While teething can cause some discomfort, irritability, and a very slight rise in temperature, it does not cause a high fever (over 38°C) or diarrhoea. These symptoms are typically signs of an underlying illness, not teething. If your baby experiences a high fever or diarrhoea, it’s essential to consult your GP or paediatrician to rule out other medical conditions and ensure they receive the proper care.
How long does the teething process last for each tooth?
The entire process for a single tooth can be quite variable. Your baby might experience symptoms for just a few days before the tooth emerges, or the discomfort could last for over a week. The most acute phase, where the tooth is actively breaking through the gum, typically lasts from a few days up to a week. Once the tooth has cut through, the associated pain and inflammation usually subside very quickly. Patience and comfort measures are key during this time.
What is the best and safest type of teething toy?
The safest and most effective teething toys are made from solid, medical-grade silicone or natural rubber. Look for toys that are easy for your baby to hold and are too large to be a choking hazard. Chilling a solid teether in the refrigerator (never the freezer) can provide extra relief. We advise against liquid-filled teethers, which can leak, and amber teething necklaces, which pose strangulation and choking risks and are not recommended by Australian health authorities.
Can teething cause a rash on my baby’s face or chin?
Yes, it’s very common for babies to develop a mild rash on their chin, cheeks, or neck around the time when do babies start teething. This is typically a contact rash caused by excess drool irritating their sensitive skin. To manage it, gently pat your baby’s face dry with a soft cloth throughout the day. Applying a thin layer of a simple barrier cream, like a lanolin-based or zinc-oxide ointment, can also help protect the skin from moisture.
When should I start brushing my baby’s new teeth?
You should begin cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as the very first one appears. For the first teeth, you can use a clean, damp washcloth or a soft, infant-sized toothbrush with just water. Once your baby is 18 months old, you can introduce a tiny, rice-grain-sized amount of low-fluoride children’s toothpaste. Establishing this routine early sets the foundation for a lifetime of excellent oral health and makes future dental visits a positive experience.
Is it normal for baby teeth to come in crooked?
It is completely normal for primary (baby) teeth to emerge at an angle or appear crooked. Often, they have gaps between them, which is actually beneficial as it leaves room for the larger permanent teeth to come in later. As your child’s jaw grows and more teeth erupt, they usually straighten out. It’s a great idea to book their first dental check-up around their first birthday to ensure their oral development is on track.
My name is Jeremy Rourke. I’m part of a family of dentists with my father, brother, cousin and nephew also being dentists. I won a University of Sydney Dental Alumni prize for being the top student in my year and graduated with Honours in 1971. I have been a Registered dentist for over 40 years. In that time I have created a few “firsts” in my efforts to stay ahead.
Comments
Post a Comment