Ahhh teething. The archnemesis of every mother! Unfortunately, it has to happen, we all have teeth. When exactly will your precious one cut that first tooth? What teeth? How will they handle it? How can I help? In this article I hope to cover the basics of teething for you, so let’s get started.
When does baby start teething?
This answer could not be more simple… ANYTIME. Woohoo! Not the answer you were looking for I am sure. Well let’s start with the average, most babies will cut their first tooth about the time you begin solids, so 6 months. Most babies cut their bottom center two teeth first. From there, expect a new round of teeth every couple of months alternating from bottom to top and working from the front to the back in pairs. AGAIN THIS IS THE AVERAGE.
That means your baby, like my first, could get 8 teeth in two weeks (the bottom middle 4 and the top middle 4) and then hold off on more teeth for 6 months. Most dentists and pediatricians will give a range that you can expect teeth to grow in during. For example the upper canines will generally make an appearance sometime between 16-22 months while the lower molars will be coming in around 14-18 months. Those teeth could come all at once at 16 months or the molars could come at 14 months and the canines not until 22 months. Like most things, babies develop however and whenever they want too.
Is my baby teething already?
You might be thinking “But my baby is 3 months old and drooling like crazy plus biting EVERYTHING, he must be teething”. Well you are probably right. After having two kiddos and discussing teething issues with literally hundreds of moms, I can say 100% some babies teeth their whole first two years. Remember my first? He got 8 teeth in 2 weeks. Sweet two weeks of teething and then a break! Wrong, he started showing symptoms of teething at 3 months and did not get those first 8 until 8 months old. IT WAS BRUTAL. He then took about a 6-month break and did it all over again. Now with my second one, she got her first 2 teeth just after 6 months and now at 8 months is working on her second 2 teeth. See? Every baby is so different! I have met babies that were born with teeth and some that did not get any until after a year old. I know some that show no symptoms, just wake up with a new tooth one day and others (especially my children) show weeks and weeks of symptoms before finally, painstakingly cutting the tooth.
Long story short, yes your baby might be teething but that does not mean he’s cutting a tooth tomorrow… he could, or it could be awhile yet.
How do I know?
Like I stated above, some babies don’t make a big deal out of teething. It just happens like some cute little white mountains appeared out of nowhere. Some, however, I swear they cut through at a millimeter per month and it is painful the whole freaking time. So what to look for or expect:
- Drool- anywhere from a little extra fluid to literal BUCKETS of spit coming from babies mouth
- Attitude- kids can get evil while teething, I can’t blame them. Two of my wisdom teeth cut through before I had them pulled at 19 and that was incredibly painful. Nevertheless, be prepared for your little angel to be far less angelic.
- Sleep- they may sleep extra since they aren’t feeling well, but more than likely the pain will lead to restless nights and more cranky attitudes
- Fever- I have done lots of research and asked many nurses/doctors and they all swear up and down that teething does not cause a low grade fever, however the entire mom nation seems to believe a low grade fever is common place for teething and I live in mom nation, so I say expect a fever. But nothing over 100 degrees!
- Teeth- Duh! Pro tip: you can see little white buds within the swollen gum line before they actually cut through, keep your eyes peeled.
How can I help?
Well lucky for you Wee Teething is here to help you help them! Be ready for the late nights, the extra cuddles and have patience. In addition, stock up on a few necessities:
- Cold things- teethers that refrigerate, frozen pancakes, popcicles
- Teething toys
- Medicine- ALWAYS check with your pediatrician before giving medication to baby
- Natural Remedies
Are you ready?
Well, if not start pretending. Baby’s teeth are going to come whether you like it or not, but looking for symptoms and being prepared does help. Watch for that 6 month mark ad be ready to ooo and ahhh over that adorable one tooth grin!
Thanks for the info. I’ve always wondered why babies cried more often during certain times. I almost think that it was probably because they were teething.
Is there an easy way to check and see if a child is teething? I mean, I know I can stick my finger in their mouths to check and see, but I’d rather not get bitten.
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Hi Cyrus! The most obvious signs of teething are swollen, red gums and little white “hills” forming under the surface. I would recommend trying to make baby laugh to get a good look inside without using your fingers 😉 Just keep in mind every baby is different. After the first tooth or two, you should be able to identify your baby’s specific “warning” symptoms. Good luck,Nicke
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Thanks for this! I found this very informative! My twins were such easy teethers that I knew this next baby would probably be the opposite. Lol
Looks like she’ll be an early teether. Gonna come here often for tips from a pro! 😉
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Hi Jessica! It is so funny how different every baby is! Both of my kids have been bears during teething, hopefully my years of trying everything will give you some guidance. If you have any questions let me know!
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