Teething – what does it look like for babies?
Teething is an exciting yet challenging moment for many parents. If your baby is fussy, drooling a lot, and perhaps even having restless nights, you might wonder: Is a tooth coming in? We’ll show you what teething looks like, what signs and symptoms may accompany it, and how you can help your little one during this time.
Teething – what does it look like?
It’s truly amazing: One day, the first bright white baby tooth pushes through your child’s gums. For you as a parent, this is a real milestone, and the new baby smile is simply enchanting! However, for little ones, teething can also be uncomfortable and come with irritability and teething pain. Here you’ll learn what teething looks like and what symptoms may be associated with it.
What does teething look like?
Baby teeth begin to form in the jaw of your infant during early pregnancy. By the time of birth, the tooth development for the baby teeth is already complete, with only the roots continuing to develop later. Here are the typical signs that indicate teething:
- Swollen gums: When the first teeth are about to break through, this often shows up as swollen gums and reddened oral mucosa. At the spot where the tooth will soon be visible, the gums appear red or bluish and swollen. This can be uncomfortable for your baby and lead to feelings of restlessness.
- Shadows or white spots: Beneath the surface of the gums, a shadow may become visible, or white spots may appear on the gum ridge. These white spots can be harmless, but if the shadow has a jagged tip, it is very likely a tooth. Some parents report being able to see the shadow of the tooth months before it actually breaks through.
- The breakthrough: When the tip of the tooth is visible, it usually won’t be long before the tooth fully breaks through. At this moment, the gums may bleed or become inflamed, which can cause additional discomfort.
What symptoms can accompany teething?
Your baby’s reaction to teething can vary greatly. Here are some common symptoms that may occur:
- Increased drooling: If your baby is drooling a lot, it could be a sign of teething. The increased saliva can also irritate the skin around the mouth and lead to redness. Many parents use bibs to protect their baby’s clothing from moisture.
- Red cheeks: Red cheeks can also indicate teething, often accompanied by pain and fever. This redness can sometimes be so pronounced that it looks like your baby has a fever, even though their temperature is normal.
- Elevated temperature: Babies may have a slightly elevated temperature while teething, which may not necessarily be due to the teething itself but rather a weakened immune system. It’s important to check the temperature regularly to ensure it’s not a sign of an actual illness.
- Chewing on objects: Many babies try to find relief by chewing on objects or their fingers. Biting seems to act like a little massage that alleviates pain. Parents can offer their child safe teething toys specifically designed for this phase.
- Fussiness and crying: Restlessness and increased crying are also common, as the gums may itch and hurt. Nights may be more restless since there are no distractions from the uncomfortable feelings in the mouth. An increased need for physical contact may also manifest; your little ones may seek comfort and be particularly clingy.
How long does teething last?
The average duration for a tooth to fully break through is about eight days. For larger molars, it may take a bit longer. Typically, after the first baby tooth, a new tooth appears every month. Overall, teething can last several months until all twenty baby teeth have broken through. It’s important to be patient, as every child teethes at their own pace.
When can you expect teething to begin?
Most babies get their first teeth – usually the lower central incisors – between six and eight months of age. Variations are normal: sometimes the first tooth may break through as early as four months or as late as nine months. By two and a half to three years old, your child will typically have all twenty baby teeth. The order can vary, but teething generally follows this sequence:
- Breakthrough of the lower central incisors (around 6 to 8 months).
- Breakthrough of the upper central incisors (around 6 to 8 months).
- Breakthrough of the lateral incisors (around 8 to 12 months).
- Breakthrough of the front molars (around 12 to 16 months).
- Breakthrough of the canines (around 16 to 20 months).
- Breakthrough of the back molars (around 20 to 30 months).
What can relieve teething pain for babies?
A tried-and-true remedy for teething pain is teething rings. When stored in the refrigerator, they can cool irritated gums and satisfy the need to chew. These teething rings come in various shapes and materials, so you’re sure to find one that your baby likes. Alternatively, you can gently massage your baby’s gums or use special teething gels available at pharmacies. These act like a mild local anesthetic directly on the gums.
Some parents also swear by natural remedies like chamomile tea, which has anti-inflammatory properties. You can cool some chamomile tea and apply it to your baby’s gums with a clean cloth. However, before using teething gels or other products, you should consult your pediatrician to ensure they are suitable for your baby.
If your baby develops a high fever or has persistent diarrhea, please consult a pediatrician. This is likely not due to teething but rather an infection that may require treatment. Additionally, amber necklaces for teething babies are not recommended: they provide no benefit and pose a strangulation risk. Here you can learn more about amber necklaces.
And don’t forget: Lots of cuddling and physical contact are always a good idea when your baby is fussy. It provides comfort and security during this exciting yet sometimes painful phase!