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Teething: Common Signs and How to Help Your Baby

Picture of Mellow Editorial Team By  Mellow Editorial Team  ·  1 minute read

Teething typically occurs between the ages of 5 to 30 months, although the actual discomfort associated with teething tends to last for merely 24 to 72 hours before a tooth emerges. Once the tooth has breached the gum, most of the discomfort is gone.

Common signs that your baby might be teething:

  1. Drooling: Excessive drooling is often one of the first signs of teething.

  2. Chewing: Babies may chew on their fingers or anything they can get their hands on.

  3. Gum Swelling and Sensitivity: The gums may appear swollen or red and feel sensitive to the touch.

  4. Irritability: Your baby may be fussier than usual due to the discomfort.

  5. Sleep Disturbances: Teething can interfere with your baby’s sleep patterns.

  6. Decreased Appetite: They might eat less due to sore gums.

  7. Mild Fever: Some babies may experience a low-grade fever.

NOT signs of teething:

  1. High Fever

  2. Persistent Diarrhea

  3. Severe Rash

  4. Vomiting

  5. Ear Pulling or Other Signs of Ear Discomfort

  6. Loss of Appetite

  7. Prolonged Crying or Distress

  8. Blood in the Stool

Important: Whenever you're in doubt or concerned about any symptoms your baby is experiencing, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure your baby's health and well-being.

How to Help

  1. Cold Items: Offer chilled teething rings or cold washcloths. Cold can help to numb the area and relieve some of the discomfort.

  2. Chew Toys: Provide safe, BPA-free teething toys for your baby to chew on.

  3. Clean Gums: Wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth to help with the soreness.

  4. Pain Relief: If your baby seems to be in a lot of pain, consult your paediatrician about administering a pain reliever first.

  5. AVOID Numbing Agents: It’s advisable to avoid over-the-counter numbing agents as they may be harmful to babies.

  6. Distraction: Sometimes, a little extra playtime or cuddle time can distract them from the discomfort.

  7. Maintain a Routine: Trying to keep a regular sleep and feeding routine can provide comfort to your baby during this challenging time.

Remember, teething can be a testing time for both the baby and the parents. It requires a lot of patience, but with the right support, you'll get through it.