Teething is an exciting, albeit sometimes challenging, milestone in your baby’s development. The process of teeth coming in can vary widely from one baby to another, but there are general patterns to be aware of.

Typical Teething Timeline

• 4 to 7 Months: The first teeth usually begin to emerge around 6 months, but they can start as early as 4 months. The two bottom front teeth (lower central incisors) are typically the first to appear.
• 8 to 12 Months: After the bottom teeth, the upper front teeth (upper central incisors) usually emerge. By around 9 months, you may notice the top and bottom teeth appearing.
• 12 to 18 Months: The next teeth to come through are often the upper and lower lateral incisors (the teeth next to the front ones).
• 18 to 24 Months: Molars and canines (also called cuspids) begin to emerge, typically between 16 to 24 months. These can be a little more painful for your baby since they are larger teeth.
• 2 to 3 Years: By the time your baby is 3 years old, most children will have their full set of 20 primary teeth.

Signs Your Baby Is Teething

Teething can cause discomfort for your baby, and you may notice several signs that their teeth are coming in, including:

• Increased Drooling: Your baby may start drooling more than usual as their body produces extra saliva.
• Chewing on Objects: Babies often try to relieve the pressure from teething by chewing on their fingers, toys, or even furniture.
• Irritability: The discomfort from teething can make your baby fussy, and they may cry more than usual.
• Swollen or Tender Gums: The gums may appear red or swollen where the teeth are about to come through.
• Changes in Eating Habits: Some babies may refuse to eat or drink, while others may want to chew on food more.
• Sleep Disruptions: Teething pain can make it hard for your baby to sleep through the night.

What to Do When Your Baby Is Teething

If your baby seems uncomfortable during teething, there are several things you can try to help soothe their gums:

• Teething Toys: Provide safe, chewable toys that are made for teething to help massage the gums.
• Cold Relief: You can chill a teething ring or a damp washcloth in the fridge to give your baby something cold to chew on. Cold items can numb the gums and offer temporary relief.
• Pain Relief: If your baby is really uncomfortable, consult your pediatrician for advice on using over-the-counter teething gels or pain relief medication.
• Gum Massage: Gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger can provide comfort and relieve some of the pressure.

Teething Variations

While 6 months is typical for the first tooth to appear, every baby is different. Some babies may start teething as early as 3 months, while others may not begin until they are closer to 12 months. Both timelines are completely normal.

When to See a Doctor

While teething is a normal process, some symptoms can mimic other conditions. If your baby experiences a fever, diarrhea, or shows signs of extreme discomfort, it may be worth checking in with your pediatrician. Sometimes, these symptoms may not be related to teething and could indicate another underlying issue.

Conclusion

Teething typically begins around 6 months, but can vary greatly from baby to baby. As your little one starts to grow their baby teeth, you can expect some discomfort and a lot of drool. However, with the right support and a little patience, you can help make the teething process easier for your baby.