Teething Symptoms Every Parent Should Know

When your little one starts to fuss more than usual, you might wonder if it’s just a bad day or the first signs of teething. Most babies begin to feel the pressure of a new tooth around 4 to 7 months, but the timeline can vary. Knowing the typical symptoms helps you act fast, keep your baby comfortable, and avoid unnecessary trips to the doctor.

Common Signs That Teeth Are Coming In

Here’s a quick checklist of the most frequent teething clues:

  • Increased drooling – you’ll see a wet chin and maybe a rash around the mouth.
  • Gum swelling or a tiny white bump where the tooth will break through.
  • Restlessness, especially at night, as the pressure builds.
  • Chewing on anything they can grab – fingers, toys, or blankets.
  • Low‑grade fever (under 101°F) that lasts only a day or two.

These symptoms often appear together, but any one of them can be a sign that a tooth is on its way.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby

First, keep a few cool items handy. A chilled (not frozen) teething ring offers safe pressure relief without hurting tender gums. You can also dampen a clean washcloth, chill it in the fridge, and let your baby gnaw on it. Gentle gum massage with a clean finger works wonders too – just a light rub for a minute or two.

For extra comfort, try a few drops of a pediatric‑approved teething gel. Avoid products with benzocaine or lidocaine, as they can be risky for infants. If you use pain relievers, a single dose of infant acetaminophen (or ibuprofen for babies over 6 months) can calm severe crankiness, but only follow the dosing instructions on the label.

Don’t forget the basics: keep the skin around the mouth dry, use a soft cloth to wipe away excess drool, and change any rash‑prone clothing promptly. A little extra cuddling during nap time can also calm a sore baby – the warmth and reassurance often reduce the urge to bite everything.

Finally, stay observant. If your baby shows signs like a persistent high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash that spreads beyond the chin, call your pediatrician. Those are not typical teething symptoms and could indicate another issue.

Teething is a short, often uncomfortable phase, but with the right tools and a watchful eye, you can make it a lot smoother for both you and your child. Keep the routine simple, trust your instincts, and remember that every baby’s teething journey is a little different.