The first tooth is a whole-family event — but it's also weeks of drool, chewing, and fussiness. Let me organize it for you: when, the real symptoms, and how to soothe safely.
When do teeth appear?
| Tooth | Approximate age |
|---|---|
| Lower central incisors | 6–10 months |
| Upper central incisors | 8–12 months |
| Lateral incisors | 9–16 months |
| First molars | 13–19 months |
| Canines | 16–23 months |
| Second molars | 23–33 months |
Late alone isn't a disease — some babies start after a year with perfectly healthy teeth. If 18 months pass with no tooth at all, see a pediatric dentist.
The real symptoms
- Heavy drooling (stock cotton drool bibs to protect clothes and reduce chin rash)
- Chewing everything within reach
- Swollen red gums, extra fussiness and crying
- Broken sleep on eruption days
What is not teething?
Fever above 38°C, severe diarrhea, widespread rash, total food refusal — these aren't teething; they're illness needing a doctor. Teething's real danger is blaming it for infection symptoms and delaying care.
Safe, proven soothing
- Cold: a chilled (not frozen solid) teether, or chilled cucumber in a feeding net.
- Gentle pressure: massage the gums with a clean finger — instant relief.
- Safe chewables: silicone stacking cups with their soft edges became a beloved teether here — toy and teether in one.
- Gentle drool cleanup: fragrance-free WaterWipes are kindest on an irritated chin.
- Pain relief when needed: age-dosed paracetamol after consulting your pediatrician — not a daily routine.
Avoid these
- ❌ Benzocaine teething gels (known infant health warning)
- ❌ Amber necklaces — a real strangulation risk
- ❌ Liquid teethers frozen solid
- ❌ Rubbing any unprescribed medication on gums
Caring for the first tooth
First tooth = first brushing. A soft silicone brush or damp gauze twice daily, rice-grain amount of toothpaste. First dental visit: within 6 months of the first tooth.
FAQ
Does teething cause fever? It may raise temperature very slightly (below 38°C). Anything above that — treat as separate illness and consult your doctor.
How long does each tooth hurt? Usually the hardest 2–3 days before eruption and a day or two after — then calm until the next tooth.
My baby refuses feeds on teething days — what do I do? Cool the gums minutes before the feed, and offer cold foods (chilled yogurt for those on solids). If refusal passes two days, consult your pediatrician.
⚕️ Note: This content is general education and doesn't replace your pediatrician's advice. Every child is different.
