When Do Babies Start Teething?

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Teething in Babies and When Does It Start?

Teething is a developmental milestone that every baby goes through, but it can be challenging for both the baby and the parents. Many parents anticipate the arrival of their baby’s first teeth, while others may not even realize their baby is teething. Teething symptoms can vary greatly among babies, but there are some common signs to look out for, and understanding when to expect the first tooth can help parents prepare for this milestone.

When do babies start teething?

There is no exact age for when babies start teething, and the timing can vary greatly from one baby to another. Most babies will start teething around six months old, but some may begin as early as three months, while others may not show any signs of teething until after their first birthday. Typically, teething symptoms will precede the appearance of the first tooth by two to three months.

What are the common teething signs and symptoms?

Teething symptoms can differ greatly from baby to baby, but there are some common signs that can indicate a baby is teething. It’s essential to understand these symptoms to help your baby manage the discomfort that comes with teething.

1. Drooling

Teething stimulates the production of saliva in babies, leading to excessive drooling. This is a common symptom of teething and can begin as early as ten weeks old. While this is generally harmless, it can lead to skin irritation and rashes around the mouth and chin area. To ease your baby’s discomfort, wipe their chin throughout the day and fasten on a bib to keep them more comfortable and clean.

2. Teething rash

If your baby is drooling excessively, the constant drip may cause chafing, chapping, redness, and rashes around their mouth, chin, neck, and chest. You can prevent irritation by patting the area dry and creating a moisture barrier with Vaseline or Aquaphor. Moisturizing with a gentle, unscented skin cream as needed can also help. Nursing cream, like Lansinoh, can protect tender baby skin too.

3. Coughing and gag reflex

A mouthful of spit caused by excessive drooling can make babies gag and cough. It’s usually not a cause for concern unless your baby shows other signs of a cold, flu, or allergies.

4. Biting

Babies experience discomfort from teeth poking through under the gums, which can be relieved by counter-pressure. Teething babies will gum anything within gnawing distance, including rattles, their hands, your nipples (if you’re breastfeeding), your fingers, crib gates, and stroller guards. If your baby bites while breastfeeding, take them off the breast and offer a cold washcloth or other forms of comfort.

5. Crying or whining

Some babies go through teething without much complaint, while others suffer from pain due to the inflammation of tender gum tissue. This discomfort can lead to whining or crying. First teeth usually hurt the most, as do molars, as they are larger. Fortunately, most babies eventually get used to the feeling and aren’t quite as bothered later on.

6. Irritability

As the little tooth presses on the gums and pokes up to the surface, your baby’s mouth will ache, making them feel out of sorts. Some babies may be irritable for just a few hours, while others can stay fussy for days or weeks.

7. Refusing to eat

Cranky babies tend to be soothed by putting something in their mouths, whether it’s a bottle or the breast. However, nursing may make a teething infant’s sore gums feel worse. This can make teething babies fussy about feedings

How to help ease your baby’s teething discomfort

While teething can be a difficult time for both you and your baby, there are some things you can do to help ease their discomfort. Here are some remedies you can try:

1. Teething toys: Teething toys can provide your baby with the counter-pressure they need to relieve teething pain. Soft, rubbery toys that can be chilled in the fridge (not the freezer) can be especially soothing.
2. Cold washcloth: A cold washcloth can also be used to provide counter-pressure and relief. Simply wet a washcloth with cold water and place it in the fridge for a few minutes before giving it to your baby to chew on.
3. Teething rings: Teething rings that can be chilled in the fridge can also help to soothe your baby’s sore gums.
4. Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can also provide relief. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before doing this.
5. Over-the-counter remedies: There are also over-the-counter remedies you can try, such as teething gels and homeopathic teething tablets. However, it’s important to note that the safety and effectiveness of these remedies is not well established, so you should talk to your pediatrician before using them.
6. Pain relievers: In some cases, your pediatrician may recommend a pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help ease your baby’s teething pain. However, these should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

When to call the pediatrician

While teething is a normal part of a baby’s development, there are some situations where you should call your pediatrician. These include:

1. If your baby’s teething symptoms seem to be especially severe or last for an extended period of time.
2. If your baby develops a fever or other signs of illness in addition to teething symptoms.
3. If your baby is refusing to eat or seems to be losing weight.
4. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as a bluish lump under your baby’s gums or a rash that spreads beyond the chin and mouth.

In conclusion, while teething can be a difficult time for both you and your baby, it is a normal part of their development. By knowing what teething symptoms to look out for and how to ease your baby’s discomfort, you can help your little one through this milestone. Remember, if you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s teething, don’t hesitate to call your pediatrician.