Teething is the process where a baby’s first set of teeth, known as primary or deciduous teeth, emerge through the gums. This developmental milestone is often accompanied by physical discomfort for infants and their caregivers. Understanding the timeline of this process is helpful for parents seeking to manage the symptoms. The total duration of active teething spans a considerable period of a child’s early life.
The Overall Timeline of Teething
The entire process of primary tooth eruption begins in infancy and concludes when a child is a toddler. Most infants start showing the first signs of teething, such as increased drooling and chewing, around four to seven months of age. This initial period marks the beginning of a years-long developmental phase.
The full set of twenty primary teeth is typically complete by the time a child reaches their third birthday. This means the overall timeline for a child to acquire all their baby teeth ranges from approximately two to three years. While the timing is unique for every child, an early or late start to this process is generally not a cause for concern.
The Acute Duration of Discomfort
While the overall process spans years, the acute discomfort associated with a single tooth’s eruption is much shorter. The most intense symptoms, such as fussiness, localized gum tenderness, and increased chewing behavior, typically occur during a short window of time. This symptomatic period often lasts only a few days for each tooth.
The pain is generally concentrated in the days immediately leading up to the tooth breaking the surface and for a brief time afterward. Symptoms may be noticeable for about eight days per tooth, with the peak occurring just before the tooth cuts through the gum tissue. If a baby is experiencing continuous, severe discomfort for an extended period, it is unlikely to be solely caused by normal teething, and a medical consultation may be necessary.
The Sequential Teething Map
The primary teeth follow a predictable, chronological roadmap as they make their appearance in the mouth. The eruption sequence generally proceeds as follows:
- The mandibular (lower) central incisors, the two front bottom teeth, typically appear between six and ten months of age, quickly followed by the maxillary (upper) central incisors.
- The lateral incisors, which sit on either side of the central ones, usually follow between nine and sixteen months.
- The first molars appear between 13 and 19 months, providing surfaces for grinding food.
- The canines, or eyeteeth, emerge next between 16 and 23 months.
- The second molars, the last of the primary set, come in between 23 and 33 months.
Symptom Management and Relief
Because the teething process is lengthy, parents often seek safe, effective ways to manage their child’s discomfort. Non-medicinal approaches are usually the first line of defense.
Non-Medicinal Relief
These methods include giving the baby chilled, solid teething rings to chew on. A clean, damp washcloth cooled in the refrigerator can also provide relief when babies chew on it. Gentle massage of the swollen gums with a clean finger or moist gauze can help counteract the pressure the tooth is exerting. Wiping away excess drool frequently prevents the development of rashes and skin irritation on the face and chin. For babies who have started solids, cold foods like applesauce or soft chilled fruits can be soothing.
Medicinal Options
If non-medicinal methods are insufficient, over-the-counter pain relievers can be considered after consulting a healthcare provider for the correct dosage. Acetaminophen is an option for infants over two months, and ibuprofen can be used for babies over six months. Parents should avoid topical gels or liquids that contain benzocaine, as they can cause a serious blood disorder in young children. Homeopathic teething tablets and necklaces should not be used due to safety and choking concerns.