Baby Teething: Signs, Symptoms, and What to Expect

Your baby is drooling more than usual, gnawing on anything within reach, and seems a little fussier than normal. Many parents see these changes and wonder whether a tooth is on the way.

So, when do babies start teething? Many babies get their first tooth around 6 months, but timing varies. Some babies get teeth a few months earlier, while others don’t see a baby’s first tooth until closer to their first birthday.

Both can be completely normal; teething is one of many changes that happen during the first year. For a broader look at this stage, see our Baby Development Milestones: What to Expect in the First Year guide.

Here’s what every parent needs to know about baby teething.

Common Signs of Teething in Babies

Baby teething can look a little different from one child to the next. Common signs of teething in babies include:

Increased drooling
Chewing on fingers or toys
Tender or swollen gums
Mild fussiness
Increased desire to bite or chew
Mild skin irritation around the mouth from drooling

These signs don’t always mean a tooth is about to appear. Babies naturally explore the world with their mouths (you’ll notice them trying to chew on everything), and drooling often increases around this age whether or not teeth are close to breaking through.

Can Teething Cause a Fever?

This is one of the most important questions parents ask about teething symptoms. Teething may cause minor discomfort or a slight increase in temperature. However, a true fever of 100.4°F or higher should not automatically be blamed on teething.

When it comes to teething vs fever, it helps to remember that a fever usually points to something else, such as a viral or bacterial infection. The same is true for vomiting, significant diarrhea, or other signs of illness. These symptoms may have another cause and deserve medical attention on their own.

Babies younger than 3 months with a temperature of 100.4°F or higher need immediate emergency medical evaluation.

How to Help With Teething Discomfort

Teething isn’t very comfortable for babies. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to help ease teething discomfort at home:

Gently massaging the gums with a clean finger
Offering a chilled, solid teething ring
Offering a clean, cool washcloth to chew
Providing comfort and reassurance
Asking a provider about appropriate pain relief if needed

Some popular teething products aren’t recommended for babies. Avoid teething gels that contain benzocaine or lidocaine, homeopathic teething tablets, and amber teething necklaces. These products may pose safety risks, and a provider can help you choose safer options.

Which Teeth Usually Come in First?

While every baby is different, teeth often come in a fairly predictable order:

Lower front teeth
Upper front teeth
Additional front teeth
Molars and canines as children grow

Timing and order can vary, so it’s not unusual for your baby’s teeth to follow a slightly different path.

Teething vs. Illness: What Parents Should Watch For

Because teething happens during a time when babies are also more likely to pick up common illnesses, it’s easy to connect every symptom to a new tooth.

However, parents shouldn’t assume all symptoms are caused by teething. Symptoms that may need medical attention include:

Fever
Persistent vomiting
Significant diarrhea
Trouble drinking fluids
Unusual sleepiness
Worsening symptoms
Signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers, a dry mouth, or crying without tears

Your concerns are good reasons to seek help from a medical provider.

When to Seek Medical Care

Most teething discomfort can be managed at home. A provider may help evaluate symptoms when your baby appears ill, symptoms seem unusual, or something just doesn’t feel right. You know your baby best, so trust your instincts.

Go to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1 if your child has:

Difficulty breathing
Signs of severe dehydration
Difficulty waking
A fever of 100.4°F or higher if they’re under 3 months

If you’re ever unsure whether something is an emergency, it’s always okay to choose the emergency room.

Supporting Your Baby Through Teething

Teething is a normal part of your baby’s development, and the amount of discomfort varies from one baby to the next. Some babies barely seem to notice, while others need a little extra comfort along the way.

With patience, gentle soothing, and attention to symptoms that may point to something else, you can help your baby through each new tooth.

If you have questions about your baby’s symptoms, a medical provider can recommend next steps.

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