5 Signs Your Baby Is Teething

As your child grows, it is exciting to enjoy each milestone that they reach. One exciting yet potentially difficult milestone is when your child cuts their first tooth. Fussing, difficulty sleeping, and other symptoms can make this a tough stage for parents to navigate. 

This guide can help you prepare for when your child may expect their primary teeth to arrive and how you can help them feel more comfortable throughout the teething process.

Teething Timeline

Many infants begin to see their first tooth between 4 and 7 months of age. The first teeth to appear are usually the bottom two front teeth, called the central incisors, followed by the top two front teeth. Most babies have all 20 primary teeth by their third birthday.

Five common signs that your baby is teething:

Excessive Drooling

Increased saliva production often starts around three to four months, causing wet bibs and clothes.

Swollen, Red Gums

The gums may appear inflamed and puffy, sometimes with a small white bump, which may be the tooth, visible beneath the surface.

Constant Chewing and Biting

Teething babies try to relieve gum pressure by chewing on fingers, toys, or hard objects.

Increased Irritability or Fussiness

Sore, aching gums can make a baby crankier than usual and harder to soothe.

Disrupted Sleep Patterns

Pain and discomfort can make it difficult for babies to fall asleep or can wake them at night.

Tips to Soothe Your Teething Infant

Comforting a teething baby can be a challenging but important part of early parenting. As new teeth begin to push through the gums, babies often experience discomfort, irritability, and trouble sleeping. Here are some helpful tips for providing gentle care to help ease their pain. 

Teething Toys

Invest in a variety of safe, teething-friendly options. These can provide a distraction and help your baby relieve pressure on their gums.

Gentle Baths

A warm bath can be soothing for your baby and may help them relax, which can indirectly ease teething pain.

Comfort and Cuddles

Sometimes, the best remedy is simply holding and comforting your baby. Extra cuddles and attention can help them feel more secure and less distressed.

Keeping Hydrated

Ensure your baby stays well-hydrated. Drinking water can help wash away excess saliva and keep the mouth and gums clean.

Gentle Brushing

If your baby has any emerging teeth, gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water. This can help keep the area clean and reduce any irritation.

When to Visit the Pediatric Dentist

The AAPD recommends that every child visit the dentist when the first tooth erupts or by their first birthday. At Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry, our entire team of dental professionals loves helping parents get started with the comprehensive, compassionate care your baby needs. 

Get your child started on the right path for oral care and health. We offer a free infant dental exam for new patients. The exam must be scheduled prior to your child’s first birthday. 

Are you looking for a pediatric dentist near Houston, TX? Book an appointment at Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry today to give your child the oral and dental healthcare they need for a healthy, happy mouth.

Welcome to Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry

Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry has four fun and welcoming locations throughout the greater Houston area, each with the goal of making young dental patients feel at home. There are fun games, ball pits, and lots of smiling faces ready to welcome young children, whether this is their first trip to the dentist or they have had a negative experience elsewhere. If your child is nervous about going to the dentist, we would love to give them a great experience.