Teething can be an unsettling time for babies and parents alike - sore gums, dribbling, and broken sleep. Knowing what’s normal, how to soothe your baby safely, and what isn’t caused by teething makes it far easier to handle. Here’s a calm, practical guide to your baby’s first teeth.
Once those first teeth arrive, daily care begins. Our children’s dental care guide covers brushing, habits, and the all-important first visit.
When Teething Happens
Most babies get their first tooth around six months, though anywhere from three to twelve months is normal - and some are born with a tooth or get their first much later. The lower front teeth usually come first, followed by the upper front teeth, with a full set of twenty baby teeth typically in place by around age three.
Signs of Teething
- Sore, red, or swollen gums
- More dribbling than usual
- Wanting to chew and bite on things
- Being more irritable or unsettled
- Disturbed sleep
- A flushed cheek on the side a tooth is coming through
Soothing Your Baby Safely
- Gently rub the gums with a clean finger
- Offer a chilled (not frozen) teething ring
- Give a cool, clean teether or, for weaning babies, chilled soft food to gnaw
- Wipe away dribble to prevent a rash around the mouth
- Extra cuddles and comfort go a long way
- Use teething gels or pain relief only if advised, and only age-appropriate products
Key fact: Teething does not cause high fever, diarrhoea, or vomiting. Mild gum soreness and fussiness are normal, but a genuinely unwell baby with a high temperature should be assessed by a doctor - don’t assume teething is to blame for those symptoms.
Caring for the First Teeth
- Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears
- Use a soft baby brush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste
- Brush twice a day, including before bed
- Never put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or sweet drink
- Book a first dental visit by the first birthday
Teething Timeline at a Glance
| Age | What’s Typical |
|---|---|
| 6–10 months | Lower front teeth |
| 8–12 months | Upper front teeth |
| 9–16 months | Side incisors |
| 13–19 months | First molars |
| 16–23 months | Canines |
| By ~3 years | All 20 baby teeth |
⚠ Important: Avoid amber teething necklaces and similar products - they pose a choking and strangulation risk and have no proven benefit. Chilled teethers and gum-rubbing are safer, effective ways to soothe.
Questions about your baby’s teeth?
The team at The Dentart, Sarjapura, Bengaluru is happy to guide new parents. Book a gentle first visit - we’ll check those new teeth and answer all your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Teething questions parents in Sarjapura ask us most.
When will my baby’s first tooth appear?
Usually around six months, but anywhere from three to twelve months is normal. Every baby is different.
Does teething cause fever?
Not a high fever. Teething may cause mild warmth and fussiness, but a genuine fever, diarrhoea, or vomiting should be checked by a doctor.
How do I soothe teething pain?
Gum-rubbing with a clean finger, a chilled (not frozen) teether, and comfort. Use gels or pain relief only if advised and age-appropriate.
When should I start brushing?
As soon as the first tooth appears - twice a day with a soft brush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste.
When is the first dental visit?
By the first birthday, or when the first tooth comes through. Early visits build comfort and catch any issues early.
Final Takeaway
Teething is a normal, if tiring, milestone - sore gums and dribbling are expected, but fever and tummy upsets are not. Soothe safely with chilled teethers and comfort, skip risky products like amber necklaces, and start brushing the moment that first tooth arrives.
Book a gentle first visit at The Dentart, Sarjapura, and start your baby’s dental journey well.
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