The first tooth is such a big little milestone — and often a rough patch for the whole family. When my son was teething, there were drooly chins, chewed-on everything, and a few broken nights. If your baby is fussy and gnawing on their fists, this guide will help you know what to expect, how to soothe those sore gums safely, and — just as importantly — what to avoid.
🦷 The one myth to unlearn
Teething can cause drooling, gum soreness, extra fussiness and a slightly raised temperature — but it does not cause a high fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, a cough or a rash. If your baby has any of those, don’t blame the teeth: it’s likely a separate infection, and worth a doctor’s check.
When do babies start teething?
Most babies get their first tooth at around 6 months, but anywhere from 3 to 12 months is completely normal — and some babies happily wait until after their first birthday. The two bottom front teeth usually arrive first, followed by the top front teeth, then the ones on either side, and the molars later. By around two-and-a-half to three years, most children have their full set of about 20 milk teeth. If your baby is a little early or late, try not to worry — it doesn’t reflect their health or development.
How do I know my baby is teething?
Every baby is different, but the common signs are:
- Lots of drooling (and sometimes a drool rash on the chin from all the wetness).
- Chewing and biting on fingers, toys, and anything they can reach.
- Sore, red, swollen gums.
- Extra fussiness and disturbed sleep.
- Rubbing the cheek or pulling at the ear on the side a tooth is coming through.
- A slightly reduced appetite, because sucking or chewing can hurt.
Safe ways to soothe sore gums
- Gum massage. Rub your baby’s gums gently with a clean finger — simple, and surprisingly comforting.
- A cool (not frozen) teething ring. Chill a solid silicone teether in the fridge — never the freezer, as rock-hard toys can bruise gums.
- A cold, damp washcloth. Let your baby chew a clean, cool cloth — cheap and effective.
- Cold foods for older babies. If your baby is on solids, chilled (not frozen) fruit puree or yogurt can feel lovely on sore gums.
- Wipe the drool. Gently pat the chin dry through the day to prevent a drool rash, and use a little baby-safe barrier cream if needed.
- Extra cuddles. Sometimes your baby just needs comfort — and that’s perfectly good medicine.
- Pain relief if truly needed. If your baby is very uncomfortable, infant paracetamol or ibuprofen can help — but only at the correct dose for their age and weight, and ideally after checking with your doctor or pharmacist.
⚠️ Teething products to avoid
- Amber teething necklaces. Health authorities warn against them — they’re a real strangulation and choking risk and there’s no proof they work.
- Benzocaine or lidocaine teething gels. Numbing gels are not recommended for babies and can cause a rare but serious blood condition — avoid them.
- Homeopathic teething tablets/powders. Some have been found to contain unsafe, inconsistent ingredients — skip them.
- Frozen-solid toys, or any teether small enough to be a choke hazard. Cool, not frozen; large and one solid piece.
Don’t forget those new teeth
As soon as that first tooth appears, it needs caring for. Start brushing twice a day with a soft baby brush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, and aim for a first dental visit by your baby’s first birthday. I’ve written a full guide on exactly when and how to start brushing baby’s teeth to make it easy.
See a doctor if your baby has a high fever (over 38°C), diarrhoea, vomiting, a rash, or simply seems unwell — these are not caused by teething and deserve a proper check.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can teething cause a fever?
Teething may cause a very slight rise in temperature, but it does not cause a true fever (over 38°C). If your baby has a real fever, look for another cause such as an infection and check with your doctor — don’t assume it’s the teeth.
What age do babies usually start teething?
Most babies start around 6 months, with the two bottom front teeth first. Anywhere from 3 to 12 months (or a little later) is normal, so try not to compare your baby to others.
What is the safest way to soothe teething pain?
Gum massage with a clean finger, a cool (not frozen) teether or damp washcloth, chilled soft foods for older babies, and plenty of cuddles are safest. For real discomfort, infant paracetamol or ibuprofen at the correct dose can help — avoid numbing gels and amber necklaces.
Does teething cause diarrhoea?
No. Teething does not cause diarrhoea, a cough or a rash. If your baby has these, it’s most likely a coincidental illness — see your doctor rather than putting it down to teeth.
Are amber teething necklaces safe?
No — paediatric health authorities advise against them because of the strangulation and choking risk, and there’s no evidence they relieve teething pain. It’s best to skip them.
A gentle last word
Teething comes in waves — a few tough, drooly days, then calm again until the next tooth. Lean on cool teethers, gum massages and cuddles, steer clear of the risky “remedies”, and start caring for those little teeth right away. Before long, you’ll be greeted by the sweetest toothy grin.
You might also like my guides on when to start brushing baby’s teeth and soothing a fussy, colicky baby.
This article is general information from one parent to another and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your paediatrician or dentist about your baby’s specific needs.
