Every tooth has to break through at some point - and that can be quite painful for your little one. This article covers when babies get their first teeth, how to recognise teething, and how to ease the pain.
When do babies get their first teeth?
Most children get their first baby tooth around six months - though that's just an average: in some babies the first tooth appears as early as four months, in others not until eight months. Usually one of the lower front teeth is first to come through. The rest of the incisors follow (around 8 to 12 months), then the first molars (12 to 16 months), the canines (16 to 20 months), and finally the remaining molars (20 to 30 months). Every child is different, so this order and timing can vary quite a bit.
The natal tooth
Very occasionally, a baby is born already with a tooth. This so-called natal tooth is often a big surprise for parents, but it's harmless - if your baby isn't bothered by it, there's no need to see a doctor or health visitor about it.
How do you recognise teething?
A tooth has to break through the gum, which can cause a dull, nagging pain. Once the tooth has (largely) come through, the pain often eases. With the first tooth, parents often find it hard to work out what's going on: your baby is fussy and slightly feverish, for no obvious reason. Run a finger over the gum and you'll often feel a small bump.
Signs of teething
- Your baby drools a lot.
- Your baby is fussy and tearful.
- Your baby has red cheeks.
- Your baby has a slightly raised temperature or fever.
- Your baby has diarrhoea.
- Your baby has a reduced appetite.
- Your baby wants to feed more often, breast or bottle.
- Your baby wants to put everything in their mouth and chew on it.
- Your baby tugs at their ears a lot.
You'll often recognise just some of these signs - drooling and fussiness are the most common. Tip: a bib helps with wet drool patches. Not sure whether it's teething or your baby is actually unwell? If the fever lasts longer than two days, or you notice symptoms beyond those listed above, contact your doctor.
Tips for easing the pain
- Gently massage the gum around the emerging tooth, with a clean finger or a cotton swab.
- Give your baby a teething ring to chew on - chilling it in the fridge first adds extra cooling relief.
- Does your baby seem to want more to drink? Go ahead and offer it; a little cold water or milk can help.
- Be understanding of the fussiness, and offer extra cuddles and attention.
- Pharmacies and drugstores sell special teething gels; always read the leaflet before use.
- Is your baby in a lot of pain, or running a fever? A paracetamol suppository can help - always follow the dosage on the packaging for your baby's age and weight.
- Does your baby also have nappy rash? Pat the bottom dry thoroughly at nappy changes and apply a mild, protective ointment before putting on a clean nappy.
- With diarrhoea: change dirty nappies straight away, since acidic stools can damage delicate baby skin and make nappy rash worse.
The first tooth: brushing
Once the first tooth has come through, you can start brushing - even though it might seem early. It's precisely those first baby teeth that are vulnerable. Use a soft toddler toothbrush with children's toothpaste, which has a mild taste most children like. Brushing once a day is enough for the first two years. Tip: regularly let your child hold the toothbrush themselves too - they'll learn what it is and what it's for. Bonus: chewing on the brush massages the gums, which helps ease the pain further.
About this article
This article is part of a series on common baby ailments. The information has been carefully put together to support new parents. Every child is different: if symptoms are severe or persistent, always contact your doctor or health visitor.
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