A child’s first tooth is a milestone that brings immense joy to parents. However, behind that excitement lies a challenging phase where children experience discomfort, irritability, and changes in appetite due to teething. Understanding the symptoms, duration, and management strategies can help ease this transition for both the child and parents.
Stages of Teething in Children
Newborns arrive without visible teeth, but by the age of six months, the lower central incisors begin to emerge. This process follows a sequential pattern:
- 6 Months: Lower central incisors appear.
- 8 Months: Upper central incisors emerge.
- 10-12 Months: Upper and lower primary canines begin to break through.
- 12-18 Months: First molars start coming in.
- 24-30 Months: Second molars complete the teething process.
By the time a child reaches two and a half years old, they typically have a full set of 20 primary teeth.
How Long Does Teething Last?
Teething duration varies among children and is influenced by several factors:
- Jawbone Density: A denser jawbone makes it harder for teeth to erupt.
- Nutrition: A diet rich in calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium (found in dairy and protein sources) strengthens teeth and promotes timely eruption.
- Genetics: If parents experienced early or late teething, their child may follow a similar pattern.
On average, teething lasts about 18 months, starting at six months and completing by 30 months.
Pediatric Dental Care at Al-Dur Al-Manthour Clinics
We provide comprehensive dental care for children, focusing on:
- Tooth Decay Prevention and Treatment
- Monitoring and Guiding Tooth Eruption
- Orthodontics and Jaw Alignment
- Dental Implants and Restorations
Hundreds of parents have entrusted us with their children’s dental health, witnessing significant improvements in their comfort, confidence, and well-being.
Early Teething in Infants
Some babies begin teething before six months, which is generally not a cause for concern. In rare cases, infants are born with natal teeth—extra incisors present at birth. If these teeth interfere with feeding or pose a choking hazard, a pediatric dentist may recommend their removal.
Common Symptoms of Teething
Teething is often accompanied by discomfort, which varies from child to child. The most frequent symptoms include:
- Irritability & Mood Swings: Increased fussiness and crying.
- Loss of Appetite: Discomfort may make eating difficult.
- Excessive Drooling: Increased saliva production leads to more drooling.
- Disturbed Sleep: Pain and discomfort can disrupt rest.
- Gum Pain & Pressure: Swollen, tender gums cause discomfort, prompting babies to chew on objects.
These symptoms peak just before a tooth erupts and subside once it fully emerges.
How to Alleviate Teething Discomfort
There are effective ways to soothe your child during teething:
- Warm Baths: A relaxing bath before bedtime helps ease tension.
- Gum Massage: After washing your hands, gently rub the baby’s gums to relieve pressure.
- Teething Toys: Special rubber or silicone teething rings help comfort aching gums.
Safe Teething Ring Practices
- Chill in the refrigerator (not the freezer) for a soothing effect.
- Clean before and after use to prevent infection.
- Avoid liquid-filled teething rings to prevent leaks.
- Never tie a teething ring around the baby’s neck to prevent choking hazards.
Helping Your Baby Sleep During Teething
Teething pain can disrupt sleep. The following strategies can improve your child’s rest:
- Offer soft, easy-to-chew foods like boiled vegetables or mashed fruit before bedtime.
- Maintain a calm environment in the evening with reduced noise and dim lighting.
- Ensure the room temperature is comfortable for restful sleep.
- Avoid excessive layering of blankets to prevent overheating.
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule to prevent overtiredness.
Does Breastfeeding Help with Teething Pain?
Yes. Breastfeeding provides natural pain relief as breast milk contains calming compounds that help relax the baby. The sucking motion also soothes sore gums and offers comfort during teething.
What Happens to the Gums During Teething?
Teething alters the appearance and sensitivity of a baby’s gums. The most noticeable changes include:
- Redness due to increased blood flow.
- Swelling and Puffiness, indicating an imminent tooth eruption.
- Slight Warmth in the gums, a normal response to teething.
Once the tooth fully emerges, these symptoms gradually subside.
How to Differentiate Between Teething and Illness
Teething and common illnesses share some symptoms, particularly mild fever. However, there are key differences:
- A slight increase in body temperature (up to 37.5°C) is common during teething.
- A high fever (above 38°C) is not due to teething and may indicate an infection.
- Teething pain centers around the gums, while an illness often involves congestion, coughing, or digestive issues.
If your child’s temperature exceeds 38°C, consult a pediatrician.
Does Teething Cause Fever?
Mild warmth is expected, but high fever is not a typical symptom of teething. If your child develops a fever, take the following steps:
- Give a lukewarm bath to cool the body naturally.
- Ensure proper hydration by offering water or breast milk.
- Provide water-rich foods like cucumbers and melons.
- Dress in light clothing to prevent overheating.
If the fever persists, consult a doctor for medical evaluation.
Best Pain Relief Options for Teething
Managing teething pain is essential to keep your baby comfortable. The most effective solutions include:
- Gum massage and teething rings (preferred natural methods).
- Paracetamol-based pain relievers (use cautiously and follow dosage guidelines).
- Avoid topical numbing gels, as they may cause serious side effects.
Medication should be a last resort, used only when other remedies fail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Tell If My Baby’s Crying Is Due to Teething?
Signs include:
- Seeking extra attention and comfort from parents.
- Increased fussiness, particularly at night.
- Gum irritation and a tendency to chew on objects.
- A slight rise in temperature.
How Can I Reduce My Baby’s Teething Pain?
- Gently massage the gums using a clean finger.
- Provide a teething ring to help soothe irritation.
- Avoid numbing gels, as they may cause serious health risks.
What Foods Are Best During Teething?
Soft, cool foods help ease gum discomfort. Great choices include:
- Chilled watermelon slices
- Cold cucumber sticks
- Frozen blueberries
- Mashed avocado
These foods provide relief while offering essential nutrients.