Baby Teething Symptoms and Care — What Parents Should Know

Teething is a natural process, but it can make babies fussy and uncomfortable. Most babies start teething between 6 and 12 months, though some begin earlier or later. Understanding teething symptoms and knowing how to soothe your baby can help both of you through this phase.

In Bhubaneswar, many first-time parents are anxious about teething and unsure what is normal. Some worry that every symptom is caused by teething, while others miss important signs. Knowing what to expect and when to seek help can make this developmental milestone much easier for both parent and baby.

At YourDentist Laser Dental Clinic in Bhubaneswar, Dr. Arpita Dash guides parents through every stage of their child’s dental development, from teething to the first dental visit and beyond.

When do babies start teething?

Babies are born with 20 primary teeth below their gums. These teeth usually start to appear around 6 months of age. Most children have all 20 baby teeth by age 3.

Baby teeth eruption timeline

Age	Teeth that usually appear
6 to 10 months	Lower central incisors
8 to 12 months	Upper central incisors
9 to 13 months	Upper lateral incisors
10 to 16 months	Lower lateral incisors
13 to 19 months	First molars
16 to 23 months	Canines
23 to 33 months	Second molars

Common teething symptoms

• Drooling more than usual
• Chewing on fingers, toys, or anything they can reach
• Swollen or tender gums
• Irritability and fussiness
• Slight rise in temperature (less than 38°C)
• Trouble sleeping
• Decreased appetite
• Rubbing ears or cheeks
• Redness in the cheeks

Symptoms that are NOT caused by teething

High fever, diarrhoea, and severe rashes are not caused by teething. If your baby has these symptoms, consult a paediatrician.

Safe teething remedies

Teething rings

A cold (not frozen) teething ring can soothe sore gums. Make sure it is clean and made of safe material.

Cold washcloth

Wet a clean washcloth, chill it in the refrigerator, and let your baby chew on it.

Gum massage

Wash your hands and gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger.

Cold foods

For babies eating solids, cold foods like yoghurt or mashed chilled fruit can provide relief.

Pain relief

If your baby is very uncomfortable, consult your paediatrician about using infant paracetamol. Avoid aspirin.

What to avoid during teething

• Teething necklaces (choking risk)
• Frozen teething rings (can damage gums)
• Hard objects that could injure the mouth
• Honey before age 1
• Teething gels containing benzocaine (can be dangerous)
• Rubbing alcohol on gums

Caring for baby teeth

Clean before teeth appear

Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. This removes bacteria and gets them used to oral care.

Brush when teeth appear

Use a soft, infant toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. Brush twice a day.

Avoid bedtime bottles

Do not put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice. This can cause baby bottle tooth decay.

First dental visit

Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within 6 months of their first tooth appearing.

When to see a paediatric dentist

See Dr. Arpita Dash if:

• Your baby has a high fever with teething symptoms
• Teeth are not appearing by 18 months
• The gums are very swollen or bleeding
• There are white or brown spots on baby teeth
• Your baby refuses to eat for more than a day

Teething and sleep

Teething discomfort is often worse at night because there are fewer distractions. A soothing bedtime routine, clean teething ring, and paediatrician-approved pain relief can help your baby sleep better.

Teething remedies comparison

Remedy	Safety	Effectiveness	Age suitable
Cold teething ring	Safe	High	4 months and up
Cold washcloth	Safe	High	4 months and up
Gum massage	Safe	Moderate	All ages
Cold foods	Safe	Moderate	6 months and up
Infant paracetamol	Safe (consult doctor)	High	3 months and up
Teething gels with benzocaine	Not recommended	Variable	Avoid under 2 years
Teething necklaces	Not recommended (choking risk)	Low	Avoid

Always consult your paediatrician before giving any medication to your baby.

Common teething myths

• Myth: Teething causes high fever. Fact: High fever is not caused by teething.
• Myth: Teething causes diarrhoea. Fact: Diarrhoea is not a teething symptom.
• Myth: All babies drool excessively during teething. Fact: Drooling varies by child.
• Myth: Teething gels are safe for all babies. Fact: Benzocaine gels are not recommended for children under 2.
• Myth: You should not clean baby teeth until all have come in. Fact: Start cleaning as soon as the first tooth appears.

Why choose YourDentist for paediatric dental care

• Child-friendly environment.
• Experienced paediatric dentist, Dr. Arpita Dash.
• Guidance for parents at every developmental stage.
• Preventive care for baby teeth.
• Early cavity detection.
• Flexible appointment times.

Related dental services at YourDentist

• Paediatric dentistry — dental care for children
• Oral prophylaxis — cleaning and fluoride for kids
• Dental restoration — fillings for children
• Aesthetic dentistry — cosmetic care for children

Frequently asked questions

When do babies start teething? Most babies start teething around 6 months, but it can begin as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.

How long does teething last? Each tooth usually causes discomfort for a few days before and after it appears. The entire teething process can last until age 3.

Can teething cause fever? Teething may cause a slight temperature rise, but high fever is not caused by teething. See a doctor for high fever.

What can I give my baby for teething pain? Teething rings, cold washcloths, gum massage, and paediatrician-approved pain relievers are safe options.

When should my baby first see a dentist? By their first birthday or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing.

Is it normal for teething to cause a runny nose? A mild runny nose can accompany teething due to increased drooling, but a persistent runny nose with thick mucus is likely a cold and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Can I use teething powder for my baby? Some traditional teething powders are not recommended as they may contain ingredients that are not safe for infants. Always consult your paediatrician before using any teething product.

What if my baby refuses to eat during teething? Offer soft, cool foods and extra fluids. If your baby refuses to eat or drink for more than a day, consult your paediatrician.

Are late teeth a concern? Some babies are late teethers and this is usually normal. However, if no teeth have appeared by 18 months, schedule a dental visit to rule out any underlying issues.

For paediatric dental care in Bhubaneswar, visit YourDentist Laser Dental Clinic. Call +91 7064719630 or message us on WhatsApp.