Teething is an exciting but often challenging stage in a baby’s development. As their first set of teeth, also known as primary teeth, start to emerge, babies may experience various symptoms and discomforts. While every baby is unique, most begin teething around the age of six months, though some may start as early as three months or as late as twelve months. This process can last for a few years, with most children having their complete set of 20 primary teeth by the age of three. Understanding the signs of teething and how to soothe a teething baby can make this milestone more manageable for parents and caregivers.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the common signs of teething, potential discomforts associated with it, and practical ways to support a teething baby through this sometimes difficult time.
What Is Teething?
Teething is the process through which a baby’s teeth start to break through the gums. This natural developmental stage is an important part of a baby’s growth, as their primary teeth are essential for proper chewing, speech development, and helping to maintain space for their future adult teeth. Teething often comes in stages, with some babies experiencing discomfort before each new tooth emerges.
The first teeth to appear are typically the lower central incisors (bottom front teeth), followed by the upper central incisors (top front teeth). As the months go by, other teeth, such as lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and second molars, make their appearance, often bringing with them different degrees of discomfort.
Common Signs of Teething in Babies
1. Increased Drooling
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of teething is excessive drooling. As teeth begin to push through the gums, the body produces more saliva, which helps to cool and soothe the gums. This increase in drooling can start several weeks before a tooth actually breaks through, and while it is a common symptom, the amount of drooling can vary significantly from baby to baby.
Drooling is a natural part of teething, but it can cause some secondary effects. Babies who drool excessively may develop a rash around the mouth, chin, or even neck due to the constant moisture on their skin. This rash may appear as small red spots or a chapped area on the skin and can be managed by gently wiping away drool and applying a barrier cream to protect the skin.
2. Chewing and Biting
Another classic sign of teething is an increased urge to chew and bite on objects. As the new teeth push through the gums, babies often find relief by gnawing on anything within reach, from their fingers and toys to the edge of a blanket or even the fingers of caregivers. This chewing action helps relieve the pressure caused by emerging teeth and can momentarily soothe sore gums.
Offering teething-safe toys or chilled teething rings can provide comfort to babies experiencing this symptom. Chewing on something cool helps to numb the gums, providing temporary relief from discomfort. It’s essential to ensure that any teething toys or objects are safe, clean, and suitable for babies to chew on.
3. Fussiness and Irritability
Increased fussiness and irritability are common behavioral changes that accompany teething. The discomfort and pressure from emerging teeth can make babies feel uncomfortable and more prone to crankiness. This irritability may be especially noticeable during the evening hours or at night, when fatigue and the discomfort from teething can make it harder for babies to settle.
The level of irritability can vary greatly. Some babies may experience only mild discomfort, while others may become significantly more fussy, making it difficult to calm them down. Gentle comforting methods, such as holding, rocking, or singing, can help soothe a fussy, teething baby. For more intense discomfort, a gentle gum massage with a clean finger may provide additional relief.
4. Disturbed Sleep Patterns
Teething can have a significant impact on a baby’s sleep. Many parents find that their baby’s previously established sleep routine becomes disrupted during teething episodes. The discomfort from emerging teeth can make it difficult for babies to fall asleep, and they may wake up more frequently throughout the night.
This disruption is often temporary and tends to improve once the tooth has fully erupted. While it can be challenging for both babies and parents, maintaining a calming bedtime routine can help soothe the baby and create a sense of familiarity that encourages better sleep. Offering extra comfort, such as gentle rocking or singing, may also help the baby settle despite the discomfort.
5. Swollen or Tender Gums
As teeth push closer to the gum’s surface, babies may experience swollen or tender gums. This is one of the more visible signs of teething, as the gums may appear red, swollen, or even bruised in some cases. Touching the gums can sometimes reveal a firm ridge where a tooth is about to erupt, and babies may pull at their gums or rub their cheeks to try and alleviate the discomfort.
Gently massaging the gums with a clean finger can help reduce tenderness. Some parents find that offering a chilled washcloth or teething toy can provide temporary relief, as the cold sensation helps to reduce inflammation and numb the gums.
6. Reduced Appetite or Changes in Eating Habits
During teething, some babies may experience changes in their appetite or eating habits. The discomfort from swollen gums can make it uncomfortable for them to suck or chew, leading to reduced interest in breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or eating solid foods. Some babies may prefer softer foods or be more inclined to drink liquids than chew solid foods during teething episodes.
While this temporary reduction in appetite is normal, it’s essential to monitor the baby’s intake and ensure they’re staying hydrated. Offering cool, soft foods, such as pureed fruits or yogurt, can provide nutrition while being gentler on sore gums. Most babies’ appetites return to normal once the tooth has fully erupted.
7. Ear Pulling or Cheek Rubbing
It’s common for babies to pull on their ears or rub their cheeks during teething. The nerves in the gums are closely connected to the nerves in the ears and cheeks, and the discomfort from teething can radiate, leading babies to tug on their ears or rub their cheeks as a way of expressing pain.
While ear pulling can be a sign of teething, it’s also a symptom of ear infections, which are common in young children. If the ear pulling is accompanied by fever, irritability, or fluid drainage from the ear, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to rule out an ear infection.
8. Mild Fever
Some babies may develop a low-grade fever (usually defined as below 100.4°F or 38°C) when teething, though medical experts debate whether teething itself causes fever. The mild fever could be due to increased activity in the gums as the teeth emerge or due to other simultaneous factors like increased drooling or changes in eating patterns.
If the fever persists or rises above 100.4°F, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional, as a higher fever may indicate an underlying infection, such as a cold or ear infection, rather than teething alone.
9. Rash Around the Mouth and Chin
Increased drooling during teething can sometimes lead to a rash around the mouth, chin, or even neck. This rash appears as small red spots or dry, chapped skin resulting from constant moisture on the skin, which can irritate delicate areas. The saliva in drool also contains digestive enzymes, which can irritate the skin further, especially if it’s not wiped away frequently.
Keeping the area dry by gently wiping away drool and applying a protective barrier cream can help prevent and treat the rash. Using a soft cloth and avoiding harsh rubbing can reduce the risk of additional irritation. If the rash becomes severe or doesn’t improve, consulting a pediatrician for additional recommendations can be helpful.
10. Increased Need for Comfort and Attention
Teething can be a stressful experience for babies, and during this time, they may seek additional comfort from caregivers. Babies may become clingier, wanting to be held more often, or may cry more frequently, seeking the reassurance of familiar voices and soothing contact.
For parents and caregivers, responding to these needs with extra cuddling, rocking, and gentle soothing can help the baby feel more secure and comforted. Increased bonding time, skin-to-skin contact, or simply being close can have a calming effect, reducing anxiety and discomfort associated with teething.
Managing Teething Discomfort: Tips for Parents
- Use Teething Toys: Offering a variety of teething toys provides babies with safe objects to chew on, helping them relieve gum pressure. Chilled, but not frozen, teething toys can provide extra relief by numbing the gums.
- Cold Washcloths: A soft, damp washcloth chilled in the refrigerator can be a gentle, effective tool for babies to gnaw on. The cool sensation helps soothe inflamed gums.
- Gentle Gum Massage: Gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger can reduce discomfort and provide temporary relief. The pressure can help reduce gum sensitivity.
- Frozen Fruit in a Mesh Feeder: For babies who have started on solids, placing frozen fruit like bananas in a mesh feeder provides a cool, safe, and tasty option for gum relief. The cold fruit can numb the gums while offering a soothing taste.
- Distraction: Sometimes, simple distraction techniques, such as reading a favorite book, singing songs, or offering a warm bath, can help distract the baby from teething discomfort.
- Avoid Certain Medications: Teething gels containing benzocaine are not recommended for young children, as they may pose risks to infants. Always consult a pediatrician before using any medication.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While teething is a normal developmental stage, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. If a baby’s fever exceeds 100.4°F or other concerning symptoms like persistent irritability, decreased feeding, or diarrhea develop, consult a healthcare provider to rule out other conditions. Persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying health issue, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get a professional opinion.
Understanding the signs of teething and knowing how to soothe a teething baby can make a significant difference during this period of development. By offering comfort and using gentle, safe methods to manage discomfort, parents and caregivers can help their babies navigate the teething process with more ease and support.
