Teething is one of the first big milestones in your baby’s development. But for many new moms, it comes with questions, tears, and maybe a few sleepless nights. At our dental clinic, we know how overwhelming this stage can be. That’s why we’re here to make teething a little easier to understand—and a lot less stressful.
When Do Baby Teeth Start Coming In?
Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months, but this can vary. Some little ones start as early as 4 months, while others don’t get that first tooth until they’re nearly a year old. It’s all normal!
Typical Eruption Timeline:
6-10 months: Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth)
8-12 months: Upper central incisors
9-13 months: Upper lateral incisors
10-16 months: Lower lateral incisors
13-19 months: First molars
16-22 months: Canines
23-33 months: Second molars
By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 baby teeth.
Signs Your Baby is Teething
Every baby is different, but these are common signs to look out for:
Extra drooling (keep those bibs handy!)
Swollen or tender gums
Fussiness or irritability
Chewing on hands, toys, or anything in reach
Disrupted sleep
Mild fever (under 101°F)
If your baby has a high fever, diarrhea, or rash, check with your pediatrician. These are not typical teething symptoms.
How to Soothe Teething Pain
No one likes to see their baby uncomfortable. Here are safe and simple ways to ease teething pain:
1. Cold Teething Toys
Pop a clean teether in the fridge (not freezer) and let your baby gnaw on it.
2. Gentle Gum Massage
Use a clean finger to gently rub your baby’s gums. It’s comforting and helps with pressure.
3. Chilled Washcloth
Wet a clean cloth, chill it, and let the baby chew on it.
4. Lots of Cuddles
Sometimes all your baby needs is your arms. Teething can be emotional as well as physical. Avoid teething gels with benzocaine or lidocaine, as they’re not safe for infants.
Teething and Sleep: What You Can Expect
Teething can throw off even the best little sleeper. Your baby may wake up more often or have trouble settling down. Try keeping your usual bedtime routine to offer comfort and consistency. Most sleep disruptions pass once the tooth erupts.
Do Baby Teeth Matter?
Yes—baby teeth are super important! They help your child:
Chew and eat properly
Learn to speak clearly
Hold space for adult teeth
Taking care of baby teeth lays the foundation for healthy adult teeth later.
Cleaning Baby Teeth and Gums
Start oral care early, even before the first tooth appears.
Before Teeth:
Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings.
After Teeth Appear:
Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and water only (no toothpaste until about age 2).Brush twice a day, especially after the last feeding at night.
Once your child can spit (around age 2), introduce a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.
Never put your baby to bed with a bottle—milk pooling in the mouth can lead to tooth decay (baby bottle syndrome).
First Dental Visit: When and Why
Generally, scheduling your child’s first dental visit by age 1, or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. Why so early?
- Detect any issues early
- Get personalized guidance for cleaning and nutrition
- Make dental visits a positive, no-fear experience
At Pediatric Dental Specialists, our office is designed with kids in mind. From bright, cheerful rooms to friendly staff who know how to keep little ones calm, we make dental visits something to smile about.
What Happens During a Baby’s First Dental Visit?
You’ll meet with a pediatric dentist who will:
- Examine your baby’s teeth and gums
- Check for proper development
- Show you how to clean your baby’s mouth
- Answer all your questions
We also talk about thumb-sucking, pacifiers, and teething habits. It’s all about giving you confidence and support.
Nutrition and Teething
What your baby eats affects their dental health, even during teething. As you introduce solids:
- Offer healthy snacks like fruits and soft veggies
- Limit sugary foods and juices
- Avoid dipping pacifiers in honey or sweeteners
- Water is a great go-to drink once your baby is old enough for a cup.
Watch for These Teething Red Flags
Most teething issues are normal, but call your dentist if you notice:
- Teeth not coming in by 18 months
- Discoloured or pitted teeth
- White spots (early signs of cavities)
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums are not related to tooth brushing
Getting ahead of these signs can prevent more serious problems later.
Need Help or Have Questions?
From teething to toddler tooth care, we make visits easy, gentle, and fun. Book an appointment with a kids' dental specialist at Pediatric Dental Specialists and give your child the best start for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
