Teething and teeth
Teething is a major milestone in your baby’s development - but it can also be a challenging time for both baby and parent. As those tiny teeth begin to push through the gums, some babies sail through with barely a fuss, while others experience discomfort, irritability, and disrupted sleep. The good news is, there are ways to ease the process and help your little one feel more comfortable.
When teething starts
Most babies begin teething around 6 months of age, though it can start as early as 3 months or as late as 12. The first teeth to appear are usually the bottom front ones (lower central incisors), followed by the top front teeth.
Signs your baby may be teething include:
- red or swollen gums
- excessive drooling
- chewing on fingers, toys, or anything they can reach
- fussiness or irritability
- disrupted sleep or feeding patterns
Caring for baby teeth
Once those first teeth arrive, it’s time to start caring for them. Good dental habits begin early:
- use a soft baby toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste
- brush twice a day - especially before bed
- avoid sugary drinks and snacks
- book your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday
Baby teeth may be temporary, but they play a vital role in speech development, eating, and guiding adult teeth into place.
Top tips to help your teething baby
Teething is one of those milestones that’s both exciting and exhausting. Your baby’s first pearly whites are on their way - but they’re bringing sore gums, disrupted sleep, and buckets of drool with them. If you’re a UK parent navigating this stage, here are tried-and-true tips to help your little one (and you) through the teething trenches.
Spot the signs
Before diving into remedies, make sure teething is the culprit. Common signs include:
- red, swollen gums
- excessive drooling
- chewing everything in sight
- irritability or fussiness
- slight temperature rise (but not a fever)
Chill out (literally)
Cold is your best friend when it comes to soothing sore gums:
- chilled teething rings: Pop them in the fridge (not freezer!) for a safe, soothing chew
- cold washcloth: Let baby gnaw on a clean, damp cloth chilled in the fridge
- cool finger foods: If your baby is weaning, offer chilled cucumber sticks or banana slices
Teething toys that work
Invest in a few high-quality teething toys:
- silicone teethers: Soft, safe, and easy to clean
- textured toys: Help massage gums while entertaining your baby
- teething mitts: Great for younger babies who haven’t mastered holding toys yet
When relief needs backup
Sometimes, natural remedies aren’t enough:
- infant paracetamol or ibuprofen: Can help with pain and inflammation (always follow dosage guidelines and consult your GP)
- teething gels: Some UK-approved gels contain mild anaesthetics - check with your pharmacist for age-appropriate options
Sleep support
Teething can wreak havoc on sleep:
- stick to your bedtime routine for consistency
- offer extra cuddles and comfort
- use a dummy if your baby finds it soothing - just be mindful of long-term use
Keep it clean
All that drool can lead to rashes:
- gently wipe your baby’s chin throughout the day
- apply a barrier cream to protect sensitive skin
Stay calm, parent
Teething can test your patience. Remember:
- it’s a phase - albeit a drooly, cranky one
- you’re doing a great job
- reach out to other parents or health visitors if you need support
Final thought
Teething can be tough, but it’s also a sign your baby is growing and developing beautifully. Be patient, try different soothing methods, and don’t hesitate to ask for support if you need it. With a little care and comfort, you’ll both get through this stage - and celebrate each new tooth along the way.