Title: Teething Troubles and Solutions
Category: Infant Oral Health | Parenting Tips
Estimated Reading Time: 3–4 minutes
Teething Troubles and Solutions
Teething is one of the first major milestones in your baby’s development — and often one of the most challenging ones for parents to navigate. Those tiny teeth breaking through the gums can bring a mix of excitement, sleepless nights, drooling, and lots of questions.
As a pediatric dentist, I’m here to walk you through what to expect during teething, what’s normal, and most importantly — how to help your little one feel better.
When Does Teething Start?
Most babies begin teething between 6 and 10 months, but it can start as early as 4 months or as late as 12–14 months. The first teeth to appear are usually the lower front teeth (central incisors), followed by the upper front teeth.
By age 3, most children will have their full set of 20 primary (baby) teeth.
Common Signs of Teething
Teething symptoms vary from baby to baby. Some breeze through it, while others feel quite uncomfortable.
Typical teething signs include:
Drooling more than usual
Swollen or tender gums
Fussiness or irritability
Chewing on fingers, toys, or anything within reach
Mild temperature (not exceeding 100.4°F / 38°C)
Trouble sleeping
Reduced appetite or nursing difficulties
💡 Important: If your baby has high fever, diarrhea, or severe discomfort, it’s best to consult your pediatrician — these are not typical signs of teething.
Soothing Teething Discomfort: What Works?
Here are safe, dentist-approved solutions to ease your baby’s teething troubles:
1. Teething Toys
Use clean, silicone or rubber teething rings that your baby can chew on. Chilling them in the fridge (not freezer) can offer extra relief.
2. Cold Washcloth
Dampen a clean cloth, chill it in the fridge, and let your baby gnaw on it. The cold helps numb the gums and reduce swelling.
3. Gentle Gum Massage
Wash your hands and gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger in a circular motion. The pressure can be soothing.
4. Feeding Time Adjustments
If your baby is refusing to nurse or eat, try smaller, more frequent feedings and softer foods. Cold purees or yogurts may also feel soothing.
5. Distraction & Comfort
Sometimes, all your baby needs is a cuddle, lullaby, or a quiet walk to feel better during a rough teething spell.
What to Avoid
While it’s tempting to try everything to help your child feel better, avoid the following:
❌ Teething gels or creams containing benzocaine (can be harmful)
❌ Amber teething necklaces (choking and strangulation risk)
❌ Frozen objects (can damage delicate gums)
❌ Hard or unsafe objects (like keys or metal spoons)
Always check with your pediatric dentist before using any teething remedies or medications.
When to Visit the Dentist
Your baby’s first dental visit should happen by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting — whichever comes first.
During this visit, we’ll:
Check for early signs of decay or developmental concerns
Guide you on oral hygiene for infants
Answer all your teething and feeding-related questions
Final Thoughts: This Too Shall Pass
Teething can feel never-ending when you're in the thick of it, but rest assured — it’s a temporary phase. With the right comfort measures and a little patience, your baby will soon be flashing their first adorable toothy grin.
Have teething concerns or need help soothing your little one?
Visit us at Dr Tooth Advanced Dental Care & Implant Center to schedule a check-up. We have branches at :- Prabhat Road: Flat no 1, Vinayak Smruti Apartments, Ghodke Chowk, Opp. Prabhat Police Chowki, Prabhat Road, Pune – 411004. Ph no. 8087783344
- Baner-Pashan Link Road: Flat no 101, Shri Clinic, Jugnu Building, Opp Magnolia Business Center, Baner Pashan Link Road, Pune - 411021. Ph no. 9371334430
We’re here to support your child’s oral health journey from the very first tooth!