How Do You Know When A Baby Is Teething?

How do you know when a baby is teething? While teething symptoms can easily be confused for something else, a few tell-tale signs can help you figure out if it’s teething and not the common cold.

A fussy baby, eating less, and irritable will always drive any mama sick with worry. It’s easy to assume they have a cold or picked up a bug. However, it isn’t always the case. Sometimes, the sudden change in behaviour stressing many parents in the world is simply because of teething.

Teething, an exciting yet nerve-wracking milestone for any baby, is when a baby’s teeth first come through their gums. It’s integral to their development, as teeth help your little one chew, speak, and smile.

Teeth Eruption Timeline

Teething can begin as early as three months but usually erupts between 4 and 7 months. The first teeth are usually the central incisors, the two teeth at the bottom. You can refer to our chart below to reference when you can expect your baby’s teeth to come through.

It isn’t uncommon to think your child’s teeth eruption is a bit behind. According to Woodhill Dental Specialties, genetics, vitamin deficiencies, low birth weight or premature birth, and developmental disorders can be why your baby’s teeth may erupt late.

However, MedlinePlus recommends that you consult a pediatric dentist if your baby still has no teeth by nine months.

How Do You Know When A Baby Is Teething? Here are 7 Signs To Look Out For

Teething can be uncomfortable for babies. And as much as we wish they could speak to us, it’s our job as mamas to observe them and watch for signs of discomfort or pain. So, how do you know when a baby is teething? Here are the clues!

Your baby doesn’t seem interested in eating solids. Expect a baby’s gums to be swollen or sore with a tooth coming through. As such, it’s expected that they would refuse to eat.
Has a slightly raised temperature. While your baby may be warmer than usual, teething will not cause a fever.
Your baby is drooling a lot. Babies will drool a lot during teething, so make sure you regularly put on a bib or wipe their neck and chin to prevent a rash from developing.
Fussiness and irritability. Teething can be painful, which can cause irritability and crankiness in your little one. It’s particularly uncomfortable when it’s the first teeth and molars that are erupting!
Trouble sleeping. Teething knows no time and can be uncomfortable round the clock, disrupting your baby’s sleep schedule.
They are gnawing on objects. Teething babies often chew on things from the remote control to their favourite toy to relieve their pain. (Also read: Why Do Babies Put Everything In Their Mouths)
Ear pulling and cheek rubbing. These two can also signify teething in babies, as the pain can spread across the cheeks and ears. However, do note that ear pulling can also indicate an ear infection.

If your child is showing these signs, then he/she is probably going through teething. Keep in mind that these signs and symptoms often show on the day before and after a tooth erupts.

How To Soothe A Teething Baby

While teething pains are unavoidable, there are many ways to help your child feel more comfortable during this period. Here are some of the easy ways to soothe your teething baby.

1. Massage your baby’s gums

Massaging the baby’s gums can help soothe the itchiness they feel. You can use a clean finger to do this. Alternatively, you can use a finger toothbrush, which features a soft, ridged surface ideal for rubbing on a baby’s gums.

Besides being great for massaging the gums, it can also be used to clean your baby’s mouth.

2. Give them a teether

Instead of letting your baby gnaw on random objects that can be full of germs and dangerous, hand them a BPA-free teether, so they have something safe to chew on.

Even better, you can place it inside the fridge first. A cool teether provides additional comfort, too!

3. Offer a healthy and cooling treat.

As mentioned above, something cool can help relieve soreness on their gums. If your baby is already eating solids, you can cut fruit and place it inside a fruit feeder.

This method not only soothes their discomfort but ensures they get a nutritious snack, too.

Be Ready For Teething With Mama’s Choice Baby Teething Package

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Mama’s Choice understands the struggles that come with a teething baby. So we’ve developed the Mama’s Choice Baby Teething Package to ensure mamas have the essentials to help them (and their babies) through this stage!

Each package comes with a Finger Toothbrush, Food Feeder, and a Baby Teether. The Finger Toothbrush is excellent for cleaning a baby’s teeth and massaging gums. It also comes with a case for hygienic storage. The Food Feeder is just the right size for a baby’s tiny fingers, so they can quickly grasp it. Meanwhile, the Baby Teether is safe to be chilled in the fridge.