Teething can make even confident parents second-guess what their baby needs. One day your little one is settled, and the next they may be dribbling, chewing everything in reach and waking more often. Although teething can be uncomfortable, it is a normal part of development, and most symptoms can be managed safely at home.
The key is knowing which changes are likely to be teething signs and which may point to illness. This guide explains when babies usually start teething, the symptoms to look for, reliable teething remedies used in the UK and when to seek medical advice.
When Do Babies Start Teething?
Most babies begin teething at around six months, but there is a wide normal range. Some develop their first tooth before four months, while others may not have one until after their first birthday. A small number are even born with a tooth.
The lower front teeth often appear first, followed by the upper front teeth. Side incisors, first molars, canines and second molars usually follow gradually. Most children have all their milk teeth by the age of two to three years, although every child’s pattern is different.
Common Baby Teething Signs
A tooth can appear with very little fuss. At other times, symptoms may last for a few days as it pushes through the gum. One of the clearest signs is a sore, red or slightly swollen area where the tooth is emerging.
Your baby may dribble more than usual, chew on toys and fingers, rub an ear or have one flushed cheek. They may seem more fretful, need extra comfort or sleep less well. A rash can also develop around the mouth or chin because the skin remains damp.
A slightly raised temperature below 38°C can occur alongside teething. However, 38°C or above is considered a fever and should not automatically be blamed on a new tooth. There is also no good evidence that teething causes diarrhoea, so loose stools, vomiting, marked tiredness or other signs of illness deserve separate attention.
Safe Teething Remedies for UK Parents
Offer a Suitable Teething Ring
A teething ring gives your baby something safe to chew and may ease pressure in sore gums. Follow the manufacturer’s age and cleaning instructions. Cooling it in the fridge can feel soothing, but do not freeze it because a frozen ring may become too hard and injure delicate gums.
Never tie a teething ring or other object around your baby’s neck. Amber teething necklaces and similar jewellery create choking and strangulation risks and should not be used.
Massage the Gums Gently
Wash your hands and gently rub the sore area with a clean finger. Light pressure may be comforting, although some babies prefer not to have their gums touched, so follow your baby’s response.
Try Cool Foods When Appropriate
If your baby is around six months or older and has started solid foods, cool soft fruit such as melon may soothe the gums. Prepare food in a form suitable for your baby’s stage and supervise them closely because of the risk of choking.
Avoid sugary biscuits, sweets or frequent rusks as teething aids. Sugar can contribute to tooth decay even when only one or two teeth have appeared.
Manage Dribbling and Skin Irritation
Gently dab your baby’s face with a soft, clean cloth rather than rubbing the skin. Keeping the mouth and chin area dry can reduce irritation. Ask a pharmacist or health visitor about a baby-safe barrier product if the skin becomes sore.
Use Comfort and Distraction
Cuddling, rocking, singing, playing or offering a calm change of activity can distract a baby from mild gum discomfort. Extra reassurance is a normal response to a baby who is temporarily uncomfortable.
Can Babies Have Pain Relief for Teething?
If your baby appears to be in pain, sugar-free children’s paracetamol may be suitable from two months of age, while children’s ibuprofen may be suitable from three months. The correct choice and dose depend on the product, your baby’s age and sometimes their weight. Always read the packaging and leaflet, use the measuring device supplied and ask a pharmacist, GP or health visitor if you are uncertain.
Never give aspirin to anyone under 16. Do not use medicine intended for another child, and check that your baby is not receiving another product containing the same active ingredient.
What About Teething Gels and Homeopathic Products?
There is limited evidence that teething gels provide effective relief, so teething rings, gum massage and appropriate pain relief are better first options. If you choose a gel, use only one specifically designed for young children and ask a pharmacist for advice. General mouth-pain gels are not suitable for babies.
Homeopathic teething products are not recommended. Unlicensed products sold online may not meet UK safety standards and have been linked with serious side effects. “Natural” does not automatically mean safe for a baby.
When to Get Medical Advice
Contact a GP, health visitor, pharmacist or NHS 111 if your baby seems unwell, symptoms persist or you are worried. Seek urgent advice for a temperature of 38°C or above in a baby under three months, or 39°C or above in a baby aged three to six months.
Medical help is also important if your baby is difficult to wake, is breathing unusually fast, is not feeding normally, has fewer wet nappies, has repeated vomiting or diarrhoea, or develops a rash that does not fade when pressed. Trust your instincts. Teething should not be used to explain away significant illness.
Caring for New Teeth
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, using a small baby toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste suitable for the child’s age. Brush twice a day, including before bed, and register your child with a dentist when teeth begin to come through. Early care helps protect new teeth and makes brushing part of the daily routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does teething discomfort last?
Symptoms often come and go for a few days around each tooth, but the overall teething stage continues as different teeth appear. A baby who remains very distressed or unwell should be assessed rather than assuming every symptom is teething.
Does teething cause a high fever?
No. Teething may be accompanied by a slight temperature rise below 38°C, but 38°C or above is a fever and may have another cause.
Can I freeze a teething ring?
No. A chilled ring from the fridge can be soothing, but a frozen ring may become too hard and damage the gums.
Are amber teething necklaces safe?
No. Necklaces and teething jewellery can create choking and strangulation hazards and should not be placed around a baby’s neck.
Conclusion
Baby teething signs usually include sore gums, extra dribbling, chewing, unsettled sleep and a greater need for comfort. Safe teething relief starts with a chilled teething ring, gentle gum massage, suitable cool foods and reassurance. Medicines should be age-appropriate and used exactly as directed, while unproven or unsafe products are best avoided. Most importantly, treat fever, diarrhoea and signs of significant illness as separate concerns and seek professional advice whenever something does not feel right.
