What Are the Symptoms of Teething in Babies?

Anasayfa Blog What Are the Symptoms of Teething in Babies?
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Baby Teething Cycle

The baby teething cycle usually begins around the 6th month. During this natural process, various symptoms may appear, including:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Swelling and sensitivity in the gums
  • Increased biting and chewing tendencies
  • Irritability and disrupted sleep patterns
  • Loss of appetite
  • Mild fever and runny nose

However, if there is high fever or intense nasal discharge, it is essential to consult a doctor.

At What Age Do Babies Start Teething?

Teething typically starts around the 6th month, but early signs can sometimes appear as early as the 3rd month. In 3-month-old babies, symptoms may include increased drooling, bringing hands to the mouth, and mild gum swelling. By 4 months, babies may show redness, noticeable gum swelling, increased biting behavior, and disrupted sleep.

Although the timing of teething varies for each child, early signs in 3- and 4-month-old babies help parents understand the initial stages of the teething process.

3-Month and 4-Month Baby Teething Symptoms

3-Month-Old Baby Teething Symptoms 4-Month-Old Baby Teething Symptoms
Increased drooling Redness and noticeable swelling in the gums
Bringing hands and toys to the mouth Increased desire to bite and chew
Mild gum swelling Disrupted sleep patterns
Irritability and crying Decreased appetite
Beginning desire to chew Mild fever and runny nose

Teething Order in Babies

Stage Teeth Appearing Age Range
1 Lower central incisors 6–10 months
2 Upper central incisors 9–12 months
3 Upper lateral incisors 9–13 months
4 Lower lateral incisors 10–16 months
5 Lower first molars 13–19 months
6 Upper first molars 14–18 months
7 Canines (cuspid teeth) 16–22 months
8 Upper second molars 23–31 months
9 Lower second molars 25–33 months

Can the Teething Order Change?

The teething cycle and order of teeth are usually consistent, but some babies may experience variations in timing. This is completely normal. If concerns persist, consulting a trusted pediatric dentist is recommended.

Baby Teething Period: When Does It Start and How Long Does It Last?

The teething period generally begins around the 6th month and continues until 30–33 months. Some babies may show early signs from the 3rd month, while others may not get their first tooth until the 12th month. The onset and duration of teething depend on the baby’s developmental rate and genetic factors.

How Long Does Baby Teething Discomfort Last?

Teething discomfort usually begins a few days before the tooth emerges and lasts until the tooth fully appears. For most babies, discomfort lasts 3–7 days, but it may extend for several weeks in cases of sensitive gums or simultaneous eruption of multiple teeth.

Baby Teething Chart

Topic Detailed Information
Start Time Teething usually starts around 6 months; early signs may appear at 4 months, and in some cases, the first tooth may not appear until 12 months.
Completion Time By age 3, all 20 primary teeth are fully emerged.
Order of Emergence 1 → Lower central incisors
2 → Upper central incisors
3 → Lateral incisors
4 → First molars
5 → Canines
6 → Second molars
Common Symptoms Gum swelling and redness, increased drooling, desire to bite, irritability, sleep disturbances, decreased appetite, ear tugging.
Misconceptions High fever (>38°C) and severe diarrhea are not caused directly by teething; these are signs of infection.
Pain Relief Methods Gently massage gums with clean fingers, use chilled (not frozen) teething toys, apply cold wet cloths, use safe BPA-free products.
Things to Avoid Amber necklaces, small or breakable toys, excessively cold or frozen foods.
Oral Hygiene Start cleaning as soon as the first tooth appears. Visit a dentist at 6–12 months. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush at 2.5–3 years.
Additional Parent Tips Clean teeth after night feeding; prefer fruits and vegetables over sugary foods.

What Helps with Baby Teething Pain?

  • Gently massage the gums with a clean finger.
  • Use chilled, not frozen, teething toys (avoid excessive contact).
  • Massage gums with a cold, damp cloth.
  • Engage the baby in play, singing, or close interaction to distract from pain.

If the baby’s teething pain is severe and natural methods are not enough, a pediatric dentist may recommend pain-relief syrups. Avoid amber necklaces, toys with small detachable parts, excessively cold foods, and alcohol-containing traditional remedies.

What Our Patients Are Wondering About

The most common symptoms during baby teething include irritability, excessive drooling, loss of appetite, frequent waking at night, gum swelling, and mild fever. Some babies may also show behaviors like pulling their ears or rubbing their cheeks.

Teething discomfort usually lasts between 3 to 7 days. During this period, babies may cry frequently, have irregular sleep, and show decreased appetite. Discomfort largely subsides once the tooth fully emerges, but the duration may vary for each baby.

One of the most effective ways to soothe a teething baby is to use chilled teething toys. Parents can also gently massage the baby’s gums with a clean finger to reduce pressure. Cold foods like fruit puree or yogurt can help calm the gums. If the baby experiences intense pain or irritability, consult a doctor. Pain-relief syrup or teething gel may be used under a doctor’s recommendation.

Teething usually starts around the 6th month. The lower front teeth appear first, followed by upper front teeth, canines, and molars. All primary teeth typically emerge by 2.5–3 years of age, meaning the teething period is a natural process that lasts about 2.5 years. Patience and supportive care from parents are essential during this period.

The back molars are usually the most difficult teeth to emerge because of their larger surface area, which puts more pressure on the gums. During this time, babies may experience increased irritability, sleep disturbances, and loss of appetite. Chilled foods, teething toys, and gentle gum massages can help relieve discomfort.
This content has been prepared by the Aderdent Editorial Board.

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