Teething 101 What Parents Need to Know

July 15, 2025, Dental Marketing

Teething is a major developmental milestone in a baby’s first year. Understanding the signs, timelines, and how to ease discomfort helps parents confidently care for their child’s oral health.

What Is Teething in Babies?

Teething refers to the process where primary teeth (baby teeth) erupt through the gums.

Most babies begin teething between 4 to 7 months of age. The lower central incisors usually appear first, followed by upper central incisors. By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth.

What Are the First Signs of Teething?

Common signs of teething include:

• Increased drooling
• Gum swelling or redness
• Constant chewing on objects
• Irritability or crankiness
• Disrupted sleep
• Mild temperature (under 101°F)

“Teething can mimic cold symptoms or fussiness, but persistent fever or diarrhea often signals illness—not teething,” says Dr. Enayat Astani, DDS, CAGS, Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist at Aquario Dental and Braces.

How Long Does Teething Last Per Tooth?

Each tooth may cause symptoms for 3 to 8 days.

Discomfort typically starts a few days before eruption and subsides shortly after the tooth breaks through the gum.

What Can Parents Do to Ease Teething Pain?

To relieve teething discomfort, parents can:

• Offer chilled teething rings (not frozen)
• Massage gums gently with a clean finger
• Use silicone teethers without liquid
• Offer a cold, wet washcloth for chewing
• Give extra cuddles and comfort
• Ask your pediatric dentist about pain-relieving options

Avoid numbing gels with benzocaine in infants under 2 years, as the FDA warns against risks like methemoglobinemia.

When Should Baby See a Pediatric Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first dental visit by age 1.

“Starting dental visits early allows us to monitor growth, guide oral hygiene, and prevent problems before they start,” explains Dr. Astani. “It also builds trust and comfort for future care.”

What Is the Teething Timeline for Baby Teeth?

Tooth Type Eruption Age (months)
Lower Central Incisors 6–10
Upper Central Incisors 8–12
Upper Lateral Incisors 9–13
Lower Lateral Incisors 10–16
First Molars 13–19
Canines (Cuspids) 16–23
Second Molars 23–33

Should Teething Cause Fever or Diarrhea?

Teething may cause a slight temperature increase but not true fever (>100.4°F).

Diarrhea, vomiting, high fever, or rash require pediatric evaluation. These are not teething symptoms and could signal infection.

Can Teething Affect Baby’s Eating or Sleep?

Yes. Babies may eat less or wake up frequently due to gum pain. Offer soft, cool foods like applesauce or yogurt during peak teething days.

What Teething Remedies Should Be Avoided?
Avoid:

• Frozen teething toys (risk of gum damage)
• Amber necklaces (strangulation hazard)
• Homeopathic tablets with belladonna
• Topical gels with benzocaine

Dr. Astani stresses safety:

“We focus on evidence-based relief that avoids risk. For children with severe discomfort, we explore safe, age-appropriate treatment plans.”

Can Teething Affect Behavior Long-Term?

No. Teething does not cause developmental delays or long-term behavioral issues. However, repeated gum pain may affect sleep patterns if not managed well.

When Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?

Primary teeth begin to fall out around age 6, making room for permanent teeth. Good oral hygiene and regular visits ensure healthy development.

Does Teething Impact Speech or Jaw Development?

Yes. Proper eruption supports speech, facial structure, and chewing skills. Misaligned baby teeth may signal early intervention needs.

Final Tip from Dr. Enayat Astani

“Our goal at Aquario Dental and Braces is to make teething and oral care a stress-free experience. With safe care, sedation options, and expert monitoring, your child’s dental journey starts with comfort and trust.”

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