Teething marks a significant developmental phase for infants, signaling the emergence of their first set of teeth through the gums. This natural process, while an exciting milestone, often causes discomfort for babies and their caregivers. Understanding the various stages of teething and effective ways to manage pain can help parents navigate this challenging time.
The Typical Teething Timeline
Teething typically begins when infants are between 4 and 7 months old, though some babies may start earlier or later.
The first teeth to appear are usually the lower central incisors, often erupting between 5 and 7 months of age. These are commonly followed by the upper central incisors, appearing around 6 to 8 months.
The progression continues with lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and finally, second molars. The acute discomfort for each individual tooth is generally short-lived. Pain for a single tooth typically lasts a few days before and after it emerges, though some discomfort can persist for up to two weeks per tooth.
Every baby’s development is unique, and the exact timing and order of tooth eruption can vary. Despite these individual differences, teeth often appear in pairs, with lower teeth frequently preceding upper teeth, providing a general guide.
Identifying Teething Discomfort
Common indicators of teething include increased drooling, which can sometimes lead to a mild facial rash around the mouth and chin. Babies may also exhibit increased fussiness or irritability, often accompanied by a strong desire to chew on objects to relieve pressure on their gums.
Gums may appear red, swollen, or tender. Changes in eating or sleeping patterns are also frequently observed, as the discomfort can make feeding difficult or disrupt nighttime rest. Some babies might rub their ears or cheeks, as pain from the gums can radiate to these areas.
While a slight increase in body temperature (typically below 38°C or 100.4°F) can be associated with teething, higher fevers or symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or widespread rashes are generally not caused by it. These symptoms may indicate an illness and warrant consultation with a healthcare provider.
Relief Strategies for Teething Pain
Offering firm rubber teething rings, which can be chilled in the refrigerator (but not frozen, as extreme cold can damage gums), provides soothing pressure. Liquid-filled teething rings should be avoided due to the risk of breakage and potential leakage.
Gently massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger provides counter-pressure that eases soreness. A cool, wet washcloth, chilled in the refrigerator and then offered for chewing, provides comfort. Some parents find success with a chilled spoon (not frozen) gently pressed against the gums.
For more significant discomfort, infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be considered, but only after consulting a pediatrician for appropriate dosage and age guidelines. Certain products, such as teething gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine, homeopathic teething tablets, and amber teething necklaces, should be avoided due to serious health risks like choking, strangulation, or adverse reactions.
When Teething Pain Ends Permanently
The recurring discomfort associated with teething largely subsides once all 20 primary (baby) teeth have fully erupted. This milestone typically occurs when a child is between 2.5 and 3 years of age, and the frequent episodes of gum pain and inflammation cease.
After this period, primary teeth remain until they naturally begin to fall out for permanent teeth, a process usually starting around age 6. The discomfort from permanent teeth eruption is generally different and less pronounced than that experienced during infancy. Thus, the challenges of “teething pain” as parents typically understand it are confined to the early childhood years.