Babies who are teething often drool more, chew on hands or toys, show puffy/red gums, get a little fussier, rub their cheeks or tug ears, and may have small changes in feeding or sleep. Gentle comfort chilled teethers, clean-finger gum massage, a cold washcloth, and extra cuddles usually helps. A high fever, persistent diarrhoea, or refusal to feed is not typical teething; contact a paediatric professional if you’re concerned.
Teething is a natural milestone and one that can raise a lot of questions. If your little one is suddenly chewing everything in sight or waking more at night, you may be in the teething zone. The good news: this phase is temporary, and with a bit of understanding (plus simple comfort strategies), you can help your baby feel calmer and more settled.
What Is Teething and When Does It Start?
Teething is the process of baby (milk) teeth pushing through the gums. Many babies start between 4–7 months, though earlier or later is still normal. Typically, the lower front teeth appear first, followed by the upper front teeth. Some babies breeze through with barely a peep; others show several signs before each new tooth appears. Every baby is different.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Teething
1) Drooling More Than Usual
Teething can trigger lots of saliva. You might notice a constantly damp bib or a drool rash around the mouth or chin. Keep skin clean and gently patted dry to stay comfortable.
2) Chewing on Hands or Toys
Pressure on the gums feels soothing, so babies often gnaw fingers, teethers, or even your shoulder. This is a classic teething cue.
3) Swollen or Red Gums
Look for puffy, tender gums, sometimes with a tiny white spot or ridge where a tooth is close to the surface.
4) Fussiness or Irritability
Sore gums can make babies grizzly especially at naps and bedtime. Many want more closeness and reassurance during this phase.
5) Changes in Feeding
Some babies refuse the breast or bottle because sucking can press on sore gums; others may feed more often for comfort. Go with your baby’s cues and keep sessions calm and unhurried.
6) Mild Temperature Rise (Not Fever)
A slight rise in temperature can occur, but a true fever (high temperature) is not typical teething. If your baby is hot, listless, or unwell, seek professional advice.
7) Ear Pulling or Cheek Rubbing
Teething discomfort can radiate to the jaw or ear area, so tugging at ears or rubbing cheeks is common especially on the side where a tooth is emerging.
8) Sleep Wobbles
Short-term night waking or restlessness may increase while a tooth is moving. Gentle routines and reassurance often smooth the bump.
Note: If your baby has a high fever, persistent diarrhoea/vomiting, widespread rash (not just drool rash), trouble breathing, or ongoing refusal to feed, contact a paediatric professional. Those symptoms are not typical teething.
How Long Does Teething Last?
Each tooth may bring a few days of on-and-off symptoms, often starting shortly before the tooth breaks through and easing soon after. Because babies develop around 20 teeth by roughly 2½–3 years, teething can feel like a stop-start journey across the toddler years. The intensity usually varies with each tooth.
Gentle, Non-Medical Ways to Soothe a Teething Baby
Chilled (Not Frozen) Teething Toys
Cool temperatures can briefly numb sore gums. Offer a clean, chilled silicone or rubber teether from the fridge (not the freezer). Always supervise.
Clean-Finger Gum Massage
Wash your hands and gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger for 30–60 seconds. Light pressure can bring quick relief.
Cold Washcloth Trick
Moisten a clean washcloth, chill it in the fridge, then let your baby chew. The soft texture plus coolness calms irritation.
Safe, Baby-Made Chewables
Choose BPA-free silicone teethers or textured rubber toys made for infants. Rotate a few options to keep interest high.
Extra Cuddles and Comfort
Sometimes the best remedy is snuggling. Responsive comfort builds security and often reduces fussiness overall.
Keep the Chin Dry
Use soft bibs and pat—don’t rub to prevent drool rash. Apply a baby-safe barrier product if your professional advises it.
Offer Calm, Unhurried Feeds
If sucking seems uncomfortable, try shorter, more frequent feeds or different positions. Keep the room quiet and dim to reduce stimulation.
Safety Checkpoint (Important)
- Avoid frozen items that can be too hard on gums.
- Never tie teethers around the neck (strangulation risk).
- Check size and integrity of teethers to prevent choking.
- Speak to a paediatric professional before using gels or pain relief, this guide focuses on non-medical comfort.
Teething and Sleep: Why Nights Get Noisy (and How to Help)
Teething can make settling harder for a few days. Try these gentle, sleep-friendly steps:
- Stick to your routine. Bath → nappy/diaper → feed (lights low) → story/lullaby → cuddle → bed drowsy but awake.
- Use white noise to mask household sounds and create a consistent backdrop.
- Offer in-cot reassurance first (hand on chest, pat/shush) before picking up.
- Avoid starting new habits you don’t want to keep (e.g., long night play).
- If wakes are frequent, consider a slightly earlier bedtime for a few nights to reduce overtiredness.
Most families notice things settle again once the tooth emerges.
Teething vs Other Issues: When to Check with a Professional
Teething rarely causes high fever, persistent diarrhoea, or ongoing refusal to feed. Call a paediatric professional if you see:
- High temperature, unusual lethargy, or breathing difficulties
- Signs of ear infection (e.g., fever with ear pulling, unusual crying, or fluid from the ear)
- Dehydration clues (very few wet nappies/diapers, dry mouth)
- A rash that isn’t just drool-related or looks widespread
Trust your instincts and you know your baby best.
FAQs
How do I know if my baby is teething or sick?
Teething commonly brings drooling, chewing, puffy gums, and mild fussiness. High fever, persistent diarrhoea/vomiting, or marked lethargy are not typical teething contact a professional.
What are the first signs of teething?
Often drooling, chewing on hands/toys, swollen/red gums, and extra clinginess, sometimes with a tiny white spot where a tooth is close.
How can I soothe my teething baby naturally?
Try a chilled teether, clean-finger gum massage, a cold washcloth, and extra cuddles. Keep feeds calm and unhurried.
Does teething affect baby sleep?
Yes, temporarily. Keep the bedtime routine steady, use white noise, and offer in-cot reassurance to resettle quickly.
Can teething cause a fever or diarrhoea?
A slight temperature rise can occur, but true fever or diarrhoea is not typical teething; check with a paediatric professional if you’re unsure.
Final Thoughts
Teething is a short-lived (if sometimes intense) chapter in your baby’s development. Understanding the signs and leaning on simple, gentle comforts can make the journey easier for both of you. Not every fussy day is teething.But when several signs line up, a new tooth may be on the way. With your calm presence and a few chilled tools, your baby will get through it just fine.
Disclaimer (Non-Medical, Info-Only)
This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not diagnose or treat any condition. Always consult a qualified paediatric professional for guidance tailored to your child.