Understanding the Teething Process
Teething refers to the process by which an infant's primary teeth emerge through the gums, typically beginning around six months of age, though it can start as early as three months or as late as twelve. The lower central incisors usually appear first, followed by the upper incisors, and by around three years of age most children have their full set of twenty milk teeth.
As a tooth pushes through gum tissue, mild inflammation occurs, which can cause temporary discomfort. While teething is a natural process, the degree of discomfort varies widely between children, and some babies show minimal symptoms while others become notably irritable.
Common Signs to Watch For
Typical teething symptoms include increased drooling, gum swelling and tenderness, a mild rise in irritability, a tendency to chew on fingers or objects, and disrupted sleep. Some infants also experience a slight decrease in appetite for solid foods due to gum sensitivity.
It is important to note that teething does not typically cause high fever, diarrhoea, or severe illness. If your child develops a fever above 38 degrees Celsius, persistent vomiting, or appears significantly unwell, these symptoms should be evaluated by a paediatrician rather than attributed to teething alone.
Safe Ways to Soothe Teething Discomfort
Gently massaging the baby's gums with a clean finger can provide relief, as can offering a clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring for the child to chew on. The pressure and cold sensation help reduce inflammation and distract from discomfort.
Avoid teething gels containing benzocaine or homeopathic remedies with belladonna, as these have been flagged for safety concerns in infants by health authorities internationally. If discomfort is significant, consult your paediatrician about an appropriate dose of paracetamol suitable for your child's age and weight.
When to Involve Your Dentist
While teething itself rarely requires dental intervention, it is a good opportunity to schedule your child's first dental visit and begin a relationship with a paediatric dental provider. If you notice unusual delays in tooth eruption, discoloured teeth appearing, or signs of infection such as swelling or pus, a dental evaluation is warranted.
Questions patients ask us
- Does teething cause fever in babies?
- Teething may cause a very mild rise in temperature, but it does not cause a true fever above 38 degrees Celsius. If your baby has a genuine fever, diarrhoea, or seems unwell, consult your paediatrician, as these symptoms usually indicate an unrelated illness rather than teething.
- Are amber teething necklaces safe and effective?
- Amber teething necklaces are not recommended by dental or medical professionals. They pose choking and strangulation hazards and have no scientifically proven benefit for teething pain. Safer alternatives such as chilled teething rings and gentle gum massage are preferred.
- In what order do baby teeth usually appear?
- Typically, the lower central incisors erupt first around six to ten months, followed by the upper central incisors, then lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and finally second molars, with most children having a complete set of twenty primary teeth by around age three.
- Can teething affect my baby's sleep and feeding?
- Yes, mild disruptions to sleep and appetite are common during teething due to gum discomfort. This is usually temporary and resolves once the tooth has fully erupted. Offering soft, cool foods and maintaining a consistent bedtime routine can help during this period.
Get a written plan and cost before you commit
If this is what you are dealing with, the next step is a consultation with radiographs — children's dentistry cases are seen by the specialist who handles that field. You get a written plan and staged cost before anything begins.
reception@dramitsharmahospital.comThis article is general education and does not replace an in-person examination, radiographs or a diagnosis by a qualified dentist.
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