Teething is the process of a baby’s first teeth breaking through the gums.

Most babies begin teething at around 6 months of age, although some start earlier or later. By around 2 to 3 years of age, most children have their full set of 20 baby teeth.

Some babies have very few symptoms. Others may become unsettled for a short time while a tooth is coming through.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

There is a wide range of normal when it comes to teething.

Some babies develop their first tooth at only a few months old, while others may not have a tooth appear until around 12 months or later.

The lower front teeth are often the first to appear.

A general guide is:

• lower central incisors: 6–10 months
• upper central incisors: 8–12 months
• lateral incisors: around 9–16 months
• first molars: around 13–19 months
• canines: around 16–23 months
• second molars: around 23–33 months

However, the timing can vary considerably between children. Therefore, being earlier or later does not necessarily mean there is a problem.

What Are the Signs of Teething?

Some babies become more unsettled when a tooth is coming through.

Common signs may include:

• red or swollen gums
• increased drooling
• chewing or biting on objects
• sucking fingers or fists
• irritability
• restlessness
• crying more than usual
• reduced interest in feeding
• flushed cheeks
• disturbed sleep

Some babies may also have a slight rise in temperature.

However, significant illness should not automatically be blamed on teething.

Does Teething Cause Fever or Diarrhoea?

A high fever, vomiting, significant diarrhoea, rash or other signs of illness are not typical teething symptoms.

Babies also tend to put more objects into their mouths around the same age that teeth begin to appear. As a result, they may be exposed to infections at the same time.

Seek medical advice if your baby has:

• a temperature of 38°C or higher
• persistent diarrhoea
• vomiting
• a significant rash
• seizures
• difficulty breathing
• poor feeding
• unusual drowsiness
• symptoms that continue or worsen

For more information about infant development and baby teeth, see Pregnancy, Birth and Baby.

How to Relieve Sore Gums

Most discomfort can be managed with simple measures at home.

Gently Massage the Gums

Wash your hands first. Then gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger.

A clean, cool damp cloth can also provide gentle pressure and comfort.

Use a Chilled Teething Ring

A cooled teething ring may help soothe sore gums.

Keep it chilled rather than frozen because very cold objects may damage delicate gum tissue.

In addition, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning and using the product.

Offer Safe Things to Chew

If your baby is old enough for solid foods, suitable foods or teething rusks may provide something safe to chew.

Always supervise babies while they eat because of the risk of choking.

Avoid hard foods or objects that could break into dangerous pieces.

Pain Relief

If your baby appears uncomfortable, speak with your pharmacist or doctor about whether an age-appropriate pain-relieving medicine may be suitable.

Paracetamol may sometimes be recommended when discomfort is significant.

Always follow the correct dose for your child’s age and weight and read the product instructions carefully.

Do not give medicines intended for adults to babies or young children.

Your MediAdvice pharmacist can help you choose an appropriate product and explain how to use it safely.

Should You Use Teething Gels?

Teething gels are generally not the first choice for managing sore gums.

Some products contain local anaesthetics or other ingredients that may not be suitable for babies.

Therefore, speak with your pharmacist before using a teething gel.

They can check whether the product is appropriate for your baby’s age and symptoms.

What Should You Avoid?

Some products marketed for teething are not recommended.

Avoid:

• amber teething necklaces or bracelets
• frozen teething rings
• homeopathic teething tablets
• applying alcohol to the gums
• giving medicines without checking the correct dose
• unsuitable anaesthetic gels
• hard objects that may damage the gums or create a choking hazard

In particular, amber necklaces and bracelets can create choking and strangulation risks.

Why Are Baby Teeth Important?

Baby teeth do much more than simply prepare the way for adult teeth.

They help children:

• chew food
• learn to speak clearly
• maintain space for permanent teeth
• support normal jaw and facial development

Healthy baby teeth also help establish good oral health habits early in life.

How to Care for Your Baby’s Gums

Oral care can begin before the first tooth appears.

You can gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth or gauze.

This helps keep the mouth clean and also allows your baby to become comfortable with regular oral care.

Caring for Baby Teeth

Once teeth begin to appear, start cleaning them every day.

Use a small, soft toothbrush designed for babies or young children.

Brush gently twice a day, especially before bed.

Good brushing habits help reduce plaque and lower the risk of tooth decay.

For more information about children’s oral health, see Healthdirect’s mouth and teeth guide.

When Should Your Child See a Dentist?

Regular dental care should begin early.

A dentist can:

• check that teeth are developing normally
• look for early signs of tooth decay
• give advice about brushing
• discuss fluoride and toothpaste
• help with oral health concerns

If you are concerned about delayed tooth development, tooth colour, damaged teeth or anything unusual in your child’s mouth, speak with a dentist or doctor.

Teething and Drool Rash

Babies often drool more when new teeth are developing.

Constant moisture around the mouth and chin can irritate the skin and cause redness.

To help protect the skin:

• gently pat the area dry
• avoid rubbing
• change wet bibs regularly
• use a suitable barrier product if recommended by your pharmacist

If the rash becomes severe, infected or spreads significantly, seek professional advice.

Teething or Another Condition?

Not every symptom that happens while teeth are coming through is caused by teething.

For example, irritability, poor feeding, disturbed sleep or ear pulling can also occur with other illnesses.

Therefore, if your baby seems generally unwell or symptoms persist, arrange a medical assessment.

You may also find our Cradle Cap guide useful for another common condition affecting babies.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Most babies do not need medical treatment for teething.

However, speak with your doctor or healthcare professional if your baby:

• has a high or persistent fever
• appears very unwell
• is unusually sleepy
• refuses fluids or feeds
• has persistent vomiting or diarrhoea
• develops a significant rash
• appears to be in severe pain
• has symptoms that do not improve
• has difficulty breathing
• shows signs of dehydration

If you are unsure whether symptoms are caused by teething, it is safer to have your baby assessed.

Speak With Your Pharmacist

Your MediAdvice pharmacist can provide advice about teething, baby oral care and suitable products for relieving discomfort.

They can also help with:

• age-appropriate pain relief
• suitable oral care products
• teething rings
• medicine dosing
• advice about when medical assessment is needed

If your baby’s symptoms suggest something other than normal teething, your pharmacist may recommend that you see a doctor, dentist or other healthcare professional.

General advice only: This information is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. If your baby is unwell or symptoms are severe, persistent or concerning, seek professional medical advice.