Baby Teething Facts for Parents

Having a new baby is not only a blessing but a fun new chapter for parents. For new parents, getting into a routine can take a few weeks or even a couple months. And just as you think you’ve perfected things, pow - teething starts and your entire routine goes down the drain.

Parents are often then left with a puzzling question of wondering how long teething lasts, so they know roughly when things can go back to normal. Unfortunately, there isn’t a baby teething timeline. Teething timing varies. Many babies get their first tooth around 6 months, and most have their full set of 20 baby teeth by about age 3.

Is My Baby Teething? Signs That Say Yes or No

In some babies, teething is the first sign of your child developing forward. Often teeth come in before your little one starts rolling over or crawling. While this is exciting for parents, it isn’t as exciting for babies. Teething may cause tender gums, drooling, mild fussiness, and an urge to chew. A true fever or signs of an ear infection should be assessed by a pediatrician rather than attributed to teething.

A baby with tender gums may temporarily be less interested in feeding. Contact your pediatrician if your baby is feeding poorly, seems unwell, or has fewer wet diapers.

What Can Parents Give Babies to Help Relieve Teething Pain?  

Do not rub liquid ibuprofen (Motrin) onto a baby’s gums. Avoid teething products containing benzocaine or lidocaine. If pain medicine is needed, ask your pediatrician about an age-appropriate medicine and dose, and give it only as directed.

Offer a firm rubber teething ring that is cool but not frozen, and supervise its use. Avoid teething necklaces and other teething jewelry because they can cause choking or strangulation.

You can also gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger to help soothe discomfort.