Teething – the process of your baby’s first teeth breaking through the gums – is a major developmental milestone.
While it’s completely normal, it can be uncomfortable for your little one, and for parents, it often raises a lot of questions.
How do you know if fussiness is teething or something else?
Here’s everything you need to know about teething.
What Is Teething and When Does It Start?
Teething is the biological process when a baby’s primary (“baby”) teeth emerge from the gums. Although every baby is different, many start teething around six months.
According to guidance from the WHO and developmental pediatric sources, the actual discomfort may begin 3–5 days before the tooth breaks through.
Because teething is natural, it’s not something to fear. But it’s also not always smooth – your baby may show a variety of signs, or none at all, depending on their temperament and pain threshold.
👉 Fun Fact: Teething timelines vary more than most parents think.
Some babies get their first tooth as early as 3 months, while others may not get one until 12–14 months, both are completely normal. Genetics often plays a big role.
Common Signs That Your Baby Is Teething
When a new tooth is getting ready to break through the gums, your baby’s body responds in several ways.
Some symptoms are mild and others are more noticeable, but all are completely normal.
Here’s what you may see during teething – and why each sign happens.
1. Increased Drooling
Teething often triggers a sudden increase in saliva production, which is why your baby may seem constantly wet around the mouth and chin. You might find yourself changing bibs more often or wiping away drool throughout the day.
The extra moisture can even travel down the neck and soak into clothing. This is completely normal and simply your baby’s body responding to gum irritation. Keeping the skin dry helps prevent rashes or redness.
Is your little one getting hiccups again and again? Check out How to Get Rid of Baby Hiccups.
2. Chewing and Biting on Objects
One of the most universal signs of teething is your baby wanting to chew everything within reach – hands, toys, blankets, or teething rings. The gentle counter-pressure from biting actually helps relieve gum soreness.
You may notice your baby becoming extra focused on chewing during playtime or when tired. Offering safe teething toys can redirect this instinct and make them more comfortable. This chewing phase typically continues until the tooth finally erupts.
3. Sore, Swollen, or Puffy Gums
When a tooth is pushing through, the gums may look red, swollen, and slightly puffy. Sometimes you might feel a tiny, firm bump beneath the surface, or your baby may pull away when you touch the area.
This inflammation is a natural part of the teething process as the gums stretch to make space for the tooth. Some babies tolerate this with ease, while others become more sensitive. Cool, soothing items can help reduce this swelling.
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4. Irritability and Fussiness
A usually calm baby may suddenly become clingy, cranky, or easily upset during teething. The discomfort tends to come and go, making your baby unsettled throughout the day. They may want to be held more often or cry when put down.
Nights can feel harder too, because babies are more aware of discomfort when they’re tired. Providing extra cuddles and soothing routines can make a big difference.
Get to know these 10 tricks for soothing a teething baby
📊 Around 15–20% of infants show almost no signs of discomfort while teething – they just wake up one day with a tooth!
5. Sleep Changes
Teething can disrupt even the best sleep schedules. Your baby may wake more often, have trouble settling down, or take shorter naps than usual. This is because gum pressure can intensify when lying down, making the discomfort feel stronger.
These sleep interruptions are typically temporary and improve once the tooth has emerged. Offering comfort without creating new sleep habits can help your baby return to normal rhythms.
6. Low-Grade Fever
A slight rise in temperature may occur when a tooth is about to break through the gums. This “teething fever” usually stays mild and short-lived.
However, high fevers, vomiting, or other strong symptoms are not related to teething and may indicate illness. Keep an eye on temperature changes and your baby’s overall behavior. If anything seems unusual, checking with a pediatrician is always the safest choice.
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7. Facial Rash or Chin Irritation
Because of excessive drooling, the skin around the chin, lips, and cheeks may become red or irritated. The constant moisture breaks down delicate baby skin, creating small rashes or dry patches.
You might notice little bumps or rough spots that come and go during the teething phase. Gently patting the area dry and applying a baby-safe moisturizer can help prevent irritation. Soft bibs also protect the neck and clothing.
8. Ear Pulling or Cheek Rubbing
Teething discomfort doesn’t stay only in the gums – it often spreads to the cheeks and ears. That’s why babies may tug at their ears or rub the sides of their faces. This behavior can look worrying, but it’s a normal response to radiating pain.
As long as there’s no fever or signs of infection, it’s likely related to teething rather than an ear problem. This habit usually fades once the tooth appears.
9. Changes in Feeding or Appetite
Some teething babies become fussy with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. They may start sucking and then suddenly pull away, or show more interest in chewing the bottle nipple or spoon. This happens because sucking increases gum pressure, making the discomfort feel sharper.
On the other hand, some babies want to feed more for comfort. As long as your baby stays hydrated and alert, these changes are normal and temporary.
10. Increased Clinginess
During teething, many babies want extra comfort, closeness, and reassurance. They may prefer being held more often, stay near you during play, or cry when you step away. This clinginess is simply their way of coping with the unfamiliar discomfort they’re feeling.
Providing gentle attention, cuddles, and soothing routines can help them feel secure. Teething is a short phase, and your support makes it easier for them to handle.
When Those Signs Might Mean Something Else
It’s important to recognize that not every symptom is due to teething. Experts caution that prolonged irritability, high fever, diarrhea, or significant changes in behavior may indicate illness – not just teething.
If your baby seems unwell, it’s always worth reaching out to a pediatrician to rule out other causes.
Safe and Effective Ways to Soothe Teething Discomfort
Here are practical, doctor-recommended strategies for helping your baby during the teething phase:
1. Gently Massage the Gums
Use a clean finger or a damp, soft washcloth to rub your baby’s gums in gentle circular motions. This applies counter-pressure and gives temporary relief.
Medical guidelines also recommend this as the first, non-medicinal approach.
2. Use Chilled (Not Frozen) Teething Items
Cool teething rings, chamomile-filled gel rings, or a refrigerated washcloth can numb gums and reduce inflammation. Avoid frozen items that are rock-solid, which can harm delicate gums.
According to Healthline, you should never freeze a teether solid – refrigerate instead.
3. Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding for Comfort
Many babies find comfort in nursing when teething. Sucking can relieve gum pressure.
If they refuse to breastfeed, offering milk using a cup or spoon may help for a short time.
4. Offer Soft, Cool Foods
Once your baby is ready for solids, you can offer cold (but not frozen) purees, chilled yogurt, or soft teething biscuits.
Even chilled fruits or vegetables (if age-appropriate and safe) can provide extra soothing under supervision.
5. Ensure Comfort and Reassurance
Sometimes, the most effective relief is not a teether but your presence. Cuddles, gentle rocking, and a calm, quiet environment can help your baby feel soothed.
Tip – Want more guidance on caring for your little one? Pregnancy Magazine brings you expert insights, simple solutions, and everyday parenting tips designed to make your journey smoother.
Whether your baby is teething, hiccupping, growing, or hitting new milestones, our trusted guidance helps you understand what’s normal, what’s not, and what you can do to help.
When to Call the Doctor
It’s time to talk to your baby’s pediatrician if:
- The “teething symptoms” last more than a few days without a tooth coming through.
- Your baby has a high fever, diarrhea, or rash – more likely linked to illness than teething.
- There’s bleeding or pus on the gums, or significant swelling.
- Teething discomfort is affecting feeding, breathing, or overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
Teething is a normal milestone – but it can bring a surprisingly emotional journey for both babies and parents. Recognizing the common signs (like drooling, chewing, fussiness, and gum swelling) can help you respond confidently and effectively.
Every baby teething story is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, stay calm, and trust your instincts.
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