Infant Teething Explained (2025) – Tips Every Parent Needs

 Infant teething is a big milestone for your baby. It shows growth and development. But for many parents, it also means fussiness, drooling, and sleepless nights. Babies feel gum pain as tiny teeth push through. The good news? With the right knowledge and remedies, you can help your baby feel better.

I have seen many parents worry when the first tooth starts showing. Some ask, “Is my baby normal?” Others wonder how to soothe the pain. In this guide, I will share everything about infant teething—from when it starts, what signs to look for, and how to comfort your baby.

What Is Infant Teething?

Baby teething signs happen when your baby’s first teeth (milk teeth) begin to break through the gums. It usually starts in the first year of life.

Teeth are important for chewing, speaking, and smiling. But before they appear, babies go through periods of discomfort. This includes infant drooling during teething, fussiness, and chewing on anything nearby.

When Does Teething Start?

Parents often ask, “When do babies start teething?” For many babies, the first tooth appears sometime between the fourth and seventh month of life. However, some may begin earlier, while others don’t get a tooth until 12 months.

The lower front teeth usually come first. Then the upper front teeth appear. By age 3, most children have 20 primary teeth.

The Infant Teething Timeline: A Simple Guide

Here’s an empty table to help you understand when each tooth usually comes in.

 Infant Teething Symptoms

Recognizing baby teething symptoms helps parents prepare. Here are the most common:

• Baby drooling and teething
• Infant's swollen gums
• Baby fussiness during teething
• Trouble sleeping
• Chewing on toys or fingers
• Loss of appetite
• Teething rash on the baby (from drool irritation)
• Pulling on ears or rubbing cheeks

Not every baby shows all symptoms. Some may cut teeth with little trouble, while others may struggle more.

Teething Stages in Babies

Teething does not happen all at once. Here’s a simple timeline:

Stage 1: 0–3 months

No teeth yet, but babies drool and chew on their hands.

Stage 2: 4–7 months

The first tooth eruption in infants happens. Lower front teeth cut through.

Stage 3: 8–16 months

Upper teeth and molars appear. Sore gums in infants are common here.

Stage 4: 16–33 months

The rest of the teeth come in. By age 3, most babies have a full set.

How Do I Care for My Baby's New Teeth?

That first tooth is magic! For infant teething aftermath, kick off baby teething care tips gently. Wipe gum with a damp washcloth after feeding to clear milk residue. Once teeth erupt, switch to a soft baby brush with a rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste.

Brush twice daily – after breakfast and bedtime – at a 45-degree angle.  Skip sugary snacks; choose water and soft fruits. First dentist visits by age one spot issues early.

Baby Teething Signs vs Illness

Many parents confuse teething symptoms in infants with sickness. Here’s how to tell:

• Chewing on toys = Teething
• Soothing swollen gums in babies helps → Teething
• Infant drooling causes rash → Teething
• High fever or diarrhea. Not toothed (see doctor)

I have seen many parents blame every cry on teething. But always check for other health issues too.

As a Parent: How Can I Make Teething Easier?

As a parent, watching your baby struggle with teething can be hard. The fussiness, drooling, and chewing can make everyone tired. The good news is there are many safe and simple ways to help. Over the years, I’ve tried different methods, and I’ve seen what really works for babies.

1. Massage the gums

One of the easiest methods is infant gum massage techniques. "Clean your hands, then softly massage your baby’s gums with a finger. This can give quick infant gum pain relief by easing the pressure from teeth pushing through.

2. Offer teething toys

Safe teething toys for babies are a must. Babies love to chew, and the pressure from biting can calm sore gums in infants. I like soft silicone toys or chilled teething rings. Avoid anything too hard or frozen, as that can hurt tender gums.

3. Use something cool

Cold helps reduce swelling and pain. A chilled (not frozen) washcloth works successfully. Some parents use cold fruit in a mesh feeder. This is one of my favourite natural teething remedies because it soothes while giving a tasty treat.

4. Try safe foods

If your baby has started solids, give them soft foods that are easy to chew. Chilled cucumber sticks or cold applesauce can help with soothing teething discomfort while keeping your baby happy.

5. Give extra comfort

Sometimes, the best teething remedies for infants are cuddles. Distraction with play, singing, or holding your baby close can ease baby teething discomfort. I’ve noticed that babies calm down faster when they feel secure in their parents’ arms.

6. Ask your doctor about medicine

If your baby is very fussy and nothing helps, ask your pediatrician about safe teething pain relief options. Never give medicine without checking first.

Teething won’t last forever, but these simple steps can make it easier for both you and your little one.

Natural Teething Remedies

Many parents look for natural teething solutions. These include:

• Cold fruit in a mesh feeder
• Breastfeeding (nursing soothes babies)
• Weak chamomile tea (with doctor’s approval)

I like these because they are gentle and safe. I’ve seen many families prefer them over medicine.

Related:  Baby Teething Remedies: 10 Expert Advice for Parents

How Should I Care for My Baby’s Teeth?

Once the first tooth appears, dental care starts. Acceptable baby teething tips:

• Use a soft baby toothbrush with water only
• Clean teeth twice a day
• Avoid putting the baby to bed with a bottle
• Schedule the first dentist visits by age 1

Caring for baby teeth early prevents cavities later.

What Not to Do During Teething

Avoid unsafe remedies:

• No gels with benzocaine
• No amber teething necklaces
• No alcohol on gums
• No hard foods that could choke the baby

Stick with proven teething remedies for babies.

When Do All of the Permanent Teeth Erupt?

After baby teeth fall out, permanent teeth take their place.

Here’s the timeline:

• 6–7 years: First permanent molars and bottom front teeth
• 7–9 years: Upper front teeth and lower canines
• 10–12 years: Premolars and second molars
• 17–21 years: Wisdom teeth (if they come in)

By adulthood, most people have 32 permanent teeth.

How Long Does Teething Last?

Infant teething stretches from 6 to 10 months to 2-3 years, filling 20 baby teeth. Pain hits in waves: 3-7 days per tooth, easing soon after. Front teeth lead at 6-12 months; molars lag to 33 months.

Genetics tweak timelines – early parents often birth speedy teethers. No big 2025 shifts, but apps track stages now.

When to See a Doctor

Most signs of teething in infants are normal. But see a doctor if:

• Baby has a fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
• Gums look infected
• Baby refuses food or drink
• Symptoms are too severe

FAQs About Infant Teething

How do I know if the baby is teething?
Look for baby teething signs like drooling, swollen gums, and chewing.

What are the worst months for teething?
Usually between 6–12 months, when the first teeth cut through.

At what age are babies teething?
Most start between 4–7 months, but it can vary.

How can I ease my baby's teething pain?
Try teething remedies for infants like toys, cold washcloths, gum massage, and natural remedies.

Final Thoughts

Infant teething is one of the first big steps in your child’s life. It can be hard for both baby and parent, but it’s also exciting. Each tooth is a sign of growth and development.

Stay calm, try safe remedies, and care for your baby’s new teeth. Remember: this stage will pass, and soon your baby will be smiling with a full set of teeth.