When Do Babies Start Teething? Signs & Soothing Tips

June 18, 2025

Teething is a big milestone—but for many parents, it also marks the beginning of sleepless nights, extra drool, and cranky days. If you're wondering when your baby’s first tooth will appear and how to soothe their sore gums, you’re not alone.

In this post, you’ll discover when teething usually starts, the most common signs, and simple, safe ways to ease your baby's discomfort—with helpful product recommendations to make life easier for both of you.

🦷 When Do Babies Start Teething?

Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months of age. However, it's completely normal for the first tooth to appear as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.

Typical Teething Timeline:

4–7 months: Bottom front teeth (central incisors)
8–12 months: Top front teeth
9–16 months: Top and bottom lateral incisors
13–23 months: Molars and canines
By age 3: Most children have a full set of 20 baby teeth

🔍 Early Signs of Teething

Teething can look different for every baby, but here are the most common signs:

✅ 1. Drooling—A Lot

You might notice your baby soaking through bibs faster than usual.

🛒 Bandana Drool Bibs – Soft & Absorbent (5-Pack)

✅ 2. Chewing on Everything

Your baby will try to gnaw on toys, fingers, and anything they can grab.

🛒 Haakaa Silicone Teething Toy – BPA-Free

✅ 3. Irritability or Fussiness

Sore, swollen gums can make your baby more cranky than usual—especially during naps and at night.

✅ 4. Red or Swollen Gums

You might see a small white bump under the gum or redness around the area.

✅ 5. Interrupted Sleep

Your baby may wake more often due to discomfort—this is very common during active teething phases.

✅ 6. Pulling at Ears or Cheeks

This can be a sign of referred gum pain.

🔔 Note: If your baby has a fever, diarrhea, or rash, consult a pediatrician. These are not typical teething symptoms and may point to something else.

💡 Tips to Soothe Teething Pain Naturally

Teething pain is real—but you can help ease it with these safe, parent-approved methods:

🧊 1. Use a Chilled (Not Frozen) Teething Toy

Coolness helps numb sore gums. Store a silicone teether in the fridge and offer it during fussy times.

🛒 Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys – Chilled Relief

💧 2. Massage Baby’s Gums

Wash your hands and gently rub your baby's gums with your finger. It helps relieve pressure and boosts circulation.

🛒 Silicone Baby Gum Brush – Dual Purpose Cleaner

🍌 3. Try a Mesh Feeder with Cold Fruit

For babies 6+ months, place cold banana, apple, or berries in a mesh feeder. It’s soothing and tasty.

🛒 Fresh Fruit Feeder Pacifier for Babies

🧴 4. Use a Natural Teething Gel (If Pediatrician Approved)

Some gentle herbal gels offer relief when applied directly to the gums. Always double-check ingredients.

🛒 Mom & World Natural Baby Teething Gel (No Benzocaine)

🎶 5. Offer Comfort, Cuddles & Distraction

Sometimes, all your baby needs is a cuddle, a song, or a little motion to forget the pain.

🛒 Portable Baby Rocker – Calming Vibrations

🚫 What to Avoid When Teething

Keep your baby safe by steering clear of these outdated or risky remedies:

❌ Teething necklaces or amber beads (choking and strangulation hazard)
❌ Frozen toys or foods (too hard = gum injury)
❌ Alcohol or clove oil rubs (can be toxic for babies)
❌ Overuse of oral numbing gels with benzocaine (not safe for infants)

📦 Teething Survival Kit (What to Have On Hand)

To make teething easier, stock your diaper bag or nursery with:

✅ 2–3 teething toys
✅ A soft gum brush
✅ Extra bibs and wipes
✅ A safe gel or remedy
✅ Something cold and chewable
✅ Loads of cuddles

🛒 Complete Teething Kit Bundle for Babies

Final Thoughts: Teething Is Tough—But Temporary

While it might feel like teething lasts forever, it’s just a phase—and you will get through it. Keep calm, offer comfort, and use the tools above to soothe your little one as those pearly whites come in.

Every tooth is a milestone worth celebrating (even the cranky ones).

PearlViva