Baby Teething Symptoms & Natural Remedies

Teething usually begins around 6 months of age, though it can start as early as 3 months or as late as 12. The signs? Excess drooling, biting everything in sight, crankiness, and a sudden dislike for feeding. It’s confusing, exhausting and very normal.

But what most baby books don't tell you is how different this journey looks for each family. Some parents swear by silicone teethers, others turn to cold fruits, while some rely on gentle homeopathy remedies passed down generations. That's why this isn't just another clinical guide, it's built with real stories from moms, plus expert-backed info you can trust.

What You'll Learn in This Blog

• When teething really starts (and why it sometimes comes late)
  
  
• The order of baby teeth and why molars are a beast of their own
  
  
• Signs it's teething, not something else (like an ear infection)
  
  
• Real tips from our Mom Insider Community to soothe pain naturally
  
  
• Safe remedies, what to avoid, and when to call your pediatrician
  
  
• How teething affects feeding, sleep, and even bonding time

What is Teething?

Teething is the process of your baby's teeth pushing through the gums, also called tooth eruption. It's a natural developmental milestone, but one that comes with its share of discomfort.

While it might feel like something's wrong when your baby is fussy, has swollen gums, or refuses to eat, it's often just their body doing what it's meant to do.

Key facts about teething:

• It typically begins between 4 to 7 months, but it's normal for some babies to start earlier or later.
  
  
• The first teeth to appear are usually the lower front ones (central incisors).
  
  
• Most children will have a full set of 20 baby teeth by the age of 3.
  

When Does Teething Start?

Most babies begin teething between 4 to 7 months, but some start earlier, while others may not get their first tooth until after their first birthday. And that's completely normal.

Typical timeline:

• 0–6 months: Teeth are forming beneath the gums.
  
  
• 4–7 months: First visible teeth begin to emerge (usually lower central incisors).
  
  
• 8–12 months: Top front teeth follow.
  
  
• By age 3: Most children have all 20 primary teeth.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 1 in 2000 babies is born with a tooth - called a natal tooth.

Baby Teething Stages & Tooth Eruption Order

Teething doesn't happen all at once. It's a gradual process that unfolds in predictable stages, though every baby's timeline may vary slightly.

Teething Stages by Age

• Stage 1: 0–6 months
  Teeth are developing beneath the gums. No visible signs yet.
  
  
• Stage 2: 6–8 months
  Lower central incisors appear first, followed by upper central incisors.
  
  
• Stage 3: 8–12 months
  Upper and lower lateral incisors emerge. Your baby now has four to eight teeth.
  
  
• Stage 4: 9–16 months
  First molars begin to erupt. These are larger and can cause more discomfort.
  
  
• Stage 5: 12–18 months
  Canines (pointy teeth) come in, helping your baby bite and tear food.
  
  
• Stage 6: 16–22 months
  Second molars emerge, typically more painful than previous stages.
  
  
• Stage 7: 22–33 months
  Final molars arrive. By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 baby teeth.
  

Teething Symptoms: What to Expect

Babies can't tell us what's wrong but teething often makes them show it. While teething symptoms vary, there are a few telltale signs parents can look out for.

Common Symptoms of Teething

• Excessive drooling
  
  
• Irritability or fussiness
  
  
• Swollen, tender gums
  
  
• Chewing on fingers, toys, or anything they can find
  
  
• Trouble sleeping
  
  
• Decreased appetite
  
  
• Mild temperature rise (not high fever)
  

What's Not Teething?

Many parents worry when teething overlaps with other symptoms, but high fever, vomiting, or diarrhea are not typical signs of teething and should be checked by a pediatrician.

How Long Does Teething Last?

Teething can last for more than a year, starting as early as 4-6 months and continuing until about 24-33 months, when the second molars come in. But the discomfort usually comes in phases, lasting just a few days to a week at a time - typically around the time a new tooth is about to break through.

Timeline of a Typical Teething Phase

• Pre-teething discomfort: 3-5 days before the tooth erupts
  
  
• Eruption day: The most uncomfortable day
  
  
• Relief period: Symptoms ease once the tooth emerges
  

What Parents Often Miss

Sometimes, symptoms like biting or waking up at night might appear weeks before a tooth shows. It’s not "just a bad habit" - it could be teething.

Important Note

If your child seems to be teething constantly with no visible tooth for months, or seems unusually distressed, consult a pediatrician to rule out other causes.

What If Teeth Come Late?

It's completely normal for babies to start teething at different ages. While many begin between 4-7 months, some babies don't cut their first tooth until 12 months or later and that's okay.

When Is Late Teething a Concern?

Delayed teething isn't usually a sign of a problem. But you may want to consult a pediatrician if your baby:

• Has no teeth by 18 months
  
  
• Shows other signs of delayed development
  
  
• Has a family history of late teething or dental issues
  

What Can Cause Delayed Teething?

• Genetics - If parents teethed late, baby might too
  
  
• Premature birth or low birth weight
  
  
• Nutritional deficiencies, especially calcium or vitamin D
  
  
• Underlying health conditions (rare)
  

Teething Pain Relief & Soothing Tips

Teething can make your baby uncomfortable, and as a parent, it's tough to watch your little one go through it. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to ease the discomfort and help your baby feel better.

Natural Remedies

• Cold Washcloth or Teething Ring: Soak a clean washcloth in water, then chill it in the fridge. When your baby chews on it, the cold can help numb their gums. Similarly, chilled silicone teethers work wonders too.
  
  
• Frozen Fruits: For babies who have started solids, offer small pieces of chilled fruit (like watermelon or apple slices) for them to suck on. This not only cools their gums but also introduces new flavors.
  
  
• Breastfeeding: Breast milk has natural soothing properties. If your baby is breastfeeding, offer extra feeds as the comfort and familiarity of nursing can help them feel secure and calm.
  

What About Over-the-Counter Solutions?

• Pain Relief Gels (Use Sparingly): While some parents opt for teething gels, always check the ingredients. Avoid those with benzocaine, as it's not recommended for babies under 2 years. Always ask your pediatrician for the safest options.
  
  
• Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen: For extreme pain, a small dose of acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can provide relief. Always follow your pediatrician's guidelines and dosing instructions.
  

What to Avoid During Teething

While teething is a natural process, there are a few things you should definitely steer clear of to keep your baby safe and comfortable.

1. Teething Gels with Benzocaine

Teething gels that contain benzocaine should be avoided at all costs. The FDA has issued warnings about these products for babies under 2 years old. Benzocaine can cause a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia, which reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood and can be life-threatening.

2. Teething Necklaces and Bracelets

Although teething necklaces are marketed as soothing, they pose a serious choking and strangulation hazard. Many of these products are made with small parts that can break off, leading to potential dangers for your baby. Always choose a teether that is designed to be chewed on and is free of loose parts.

3. Hard Foods or Unsupervised Finger Foods

Hard foods like carrots, nuts, or large chunks of fruit can pose a choking risk, especially for babies under 12 months who might not be able to chew them properly. While some parents offer these for teething relief, always ensure that the food is soft, cut into small pieces, and supervised during the feeding process.

4. Teething Tablets

Homeopathic teething tablets have been widely available, but some brands have been recalled due to safety concerns. They may contain dangerous levels of certain ingredients or have been linked to serious side effects, including seizures. Always check for any FDA warnings before using such products.

When to See a Pediatrician

Most babies sail through teething with a bit of fussiness, drool, and the occasional sleepless night. But sometimes, teething symptoms can overlap with other health issues, so it's important to know when to seek professional help.

Signs That It's More Than Just Teething

While mild discomfort, gum swelling, and increased drooling are common, you should consult your pediatrician if your baby shows any of the following signs:

• High fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
  
  
• Diarrhea lasting more than a day
  
  
• Vomiting
  
  
• Ear pulling that doesn't stop or is paired with a fever (could be an ear infection)
  
  
• Rashes on other parts of the body (beyond mild facial drool rash)
  
  
• Extreme irritability or crying that can't be soothed
  
  
• Lack of appetite for over 24 hours
  
  
• White patches in the mouth or on the tongue (could indicate oral thrush)
  

Caring for Your Baby's New Teeth

Teething is just the beginning, once those tiny pearly whites start appearing, it's time to build a healthy dental care routine. Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, caring for them is essential to your child's long-term oral health.

Why Baby Teeth Matter

• They help babies chew properly and transition to solids.
  
  
• They play a key role in speech development.
  
  
• They act as placeholders for adult teeth, guiding proper alignment.
  

How to Clean Baby Teeth

Start simple and gentle:

• Before teeth erupt: Wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding.
  
  
• Once teeth appear: Use a baby toothbrush with soft bristles and water. No toothpaste is needed until 18 months (unless advised by your doctor).
  
  
• At 18 months, you can use a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. 
  
  
• Brush twice a day, especially before bedtime.
  

When to Start Dental Visits

The Indian Dental Association and AAPD recommend: "Take your baby to the dentist within six months of the first tooth appearing or by their first birthday."

Early visits help catch any issues and get your child used to dental care routines.

Conclusion

Teething can be a tough phase, for both babies and parents. But knowing what to expect, how to soothe your little one, and when to seek help can make all the difference. Every baby is different: some breeze through teething, while others struggle. What matters most is that you're present, patient, and prepared.

Trust your instincts, lean on your parenting village, and remember - this phase, like all others, will pass.