A Parent's Guide to Infant Teething: Signs and Safe Home Remedies
Watching your baby go through teething can be an unsettling time for any parent. The good news is that teething is a normal part of development, and most discomfort can be managed safely at home. This guide from Cliniva Dental Clinic in DLF Phase 2, Gurugram, walks you through the common signs of teething and gentle remedies that actually help.
Common Signs of Teething
Teething symptoms usually appear a few days before a tooth breaks through the gum and can continue for a short while after. Not every baby shows the same signs, but here are the most common ones parents notice.
- Increased drooling and a wet chin or collar
- Chewing or gnawing on fingers, toys, or teething rings
- Swollen, tender, or reddened gums
- Irritability or fussiness, especially in the evening
- Mild disruption in sleep patterns
- Slight loss of appetite or refusing solid foods
- Rubbing the ear or cheek on the same side as the emerging tooth
It is worth knowing that teething does not typically cause high fever, severe diarrhoea, rashes, or persistent crying. If your baby shows these symptoms, it is more likely due to an unrelated illness and should be checked by a pediatrician.
Which Teeth Come In First
Most babies get their lower central incisors first, followed by the upper central incisors. Molars, which are larger, sometimes cause more noticeable discomfort because they take up more surface area on the gums.
| Tooth Type | Typical Age of Eruption |
|---|---|
| Lower central incisors | 6 to 10 months |
| Upper central incisors | 8 to 12 months |
| Lateral incisors | 9 to 16 months |
| First molars | 13 to 19 months |
| Canines | 16 to 23 months |
| Second molars | 23 to 33 months |
Safe Home Remedies to Soothe Teething Discomfort
Simple, gentle methods are usually the safest and most effective way to ease your baby's discomfort.
Cold Relief
- Offer a clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring for your baby to chew on
- A cold, damp washcloth kept in the fridge works well as a gentle chew toy
- For babies over 6 months already eating solids, chilled purees like mashed banana can be soothing
Gentle Massage
Washing your hands and gently rubbing your baby's gums with a clean finger can offer temporary relief. Many babies find this comforting, especially before feeding or naptime.
Comfort and Distraction
Extra cuddling, a calm environment, and familiar routines can help your baby cope with the discomfort. Sometimes simple distraction, like a favourite toy or song, reduces fussiness.
What to Avoid
- Teething gels containing benzocaine, which are not recommended for infants
- Amber teething necklaces, which pose a choking and strangulation risk
- Frozen teething rings that are too hard on developing gums
- Aspirin or rubbing any medication directly on the gums
If you are unsure about any product, it is always best to check with your pediatrician or dentist first.
When to See a Dentist or Doctor
While teething discomfort is normal, certain signs deserve professional attention. Contact your doctor or dentist if your baby has a high fever, seems unusually lethargic, has swelling that looks unusual, or if a tooth appears discoloured or misshapen as it erupts.
Bringing your baby for their first dental check-up early helps establish good oral health habits and allows the dentist to monitor tooth development closely. Families in DLF Phase 2 and nearby parts of Gurugram are welcome to visit Cliniva Dental Clinic for guidance tailored to your baby's needs.
Caring for New Teeth
Once teeth start appearing, gently clean them twice a day with a soft infant toothbrush or a clean, damp cloth. Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice, as this can contribute to early tooth decay. Small, consistent habits now set the foundation for healthy oral care as your child grows.
If you have questions about your baby's teething progress or want a check-up, the team at Cliniva Dental Clinic in DLF Phase 2, Sector 25, Gurugram, is happy to help. You can reach us at +91 98103 71228.
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Cliniva Dental Clinic · DLF Phase 2, Sector 25, Gurugram
Frequently asked questions
At what age do babies usually start teething?
Most babies get their first tooth between 6 and 10 months, though some start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. Every baby's timeline is different, and a slightly early or late start is usually normal.
Can teething cause fever or diarrhoea?
Teething may cause a very mild rise in temperature, but a high fever, vomiting, or diarrhoea is not caused by teething and needs a doctor's attention, since these are more likely signs of an unrelated infection.
Are teething gels safe for babies?
Many over-the-counter teething gels contain ingredients not recommended for infants. It is best to check with your pediatrician or dentist before using any gel, and avoid products containing benzocaine for babies.
When should I bring my baby for their first dental visit?
It is recommended to schedule a first dental visit within six months of the first tooth appearing, or by the first birthday, whichever comes first. This helps track healthy development from the start.
Treatment costs mentioned on this page are indicative ranges for the DLF Phase 2, Gurugram region. Your exact cost depends on your case and will be confirmed after a clinical examination at the clinic.