Teething is a milestone every baby encounters, often filled with drool, fussiness, and sleepless nights. While it’s a natural process, it can leave parents wondering what’s normal and how to help. Below, we explore common teething symptoms, paired with expert insights from Woodlawn Kids Dental on caring for babies’ developing smiles. (Source: Parents, 9 Baby Teething Symptoms To Know By Marisa Cohen, Medically reviewed by Alyssa Wohl, MD, Updated on September 30, 2024, https://www.parents.com/baby/health/baby-teeth/baby-teething-timeline/ ).
Swollen, Tender Gums
One of the earliest signs of teething is swollen, tender gums as the teeth begin pushing toward the surface. You might notice redness or puffiness in your baby’s mouth.
Woodlawn Kids Dental highlights, “Swollen gums signal that the underlying tooth is moving into position. Parents can ease discomfort with gentle gum massages using a clean finger or a cool, damp cloth. This small act not only relieves pressure but also fosters a positive early connection to oral care, laying the groundwork for healthy smiles.”
Increased Drooling
Teething often triggers an increase in saliva production, resulting in drool-soaked shirts and chins.
Woodlawn Kids Dental explains, “Excessive drooling is the body’s natural response to teething. But it can irritate the skin if left unchecked. Keeping the area dry and applying a gentle, baby-safe moisturizer helps prevent rashes. It’s a simple yet important part of kids oral care during this stage.”
Chewing on Everything
Babies instinctively chew on their hands, toys, or anything they can grab to soothe sore gums.
Woodlawn Kids Dental comments, “Chewing is a baby’s way of managing gum pain and stimulating the erupting tooth. Offering safe, BPA-free teething toys provides relief while steering little ones away from unsafe objects. We also remind parents that early chewing habits are part of oral development and deserve thoughtful attention.”
Fussiness and Irritability
The discomfort of teething can understandably lead to crankiness and clinginess.
Woodlawn Kids Dental shares, “Teething irritability isn’t just about pain—it’s about change. Babies are experiencing unfamiliar sensations. Comfort measures like snuggles, soothing music, or cold teething rings can reduce frustration. Supporting emotional comfort is just as vital as physical relief in nurturing healthy smiles.”
Rubbing Ears or Cheeks
Some babies tug at their ears or rub their cheeks, a sign of referred pain from the jaw.
Woodlawn Kids Dental explains, “The nerves in the gums, cheeks, and ears are interconnected. Parents might confuse ear pulling with an ear infection, but if no fever or other illness signs are present, it’s likely teething. Still, we recommend checking in with a children’s dentist if ear discomfort persists alongside other symptoms.”
Drool Rash
A rash around the mouth or neck may develop from constant moisture on the skin.
Woodlawn Kids Dental mentions, “A drool rash is common but preventable. Frequent wiping with a soft cloth, changing damp clothes, and applying a light protective barrier can minimize irritation. This kind of proactive care helps babies stay comfortable while encouraging parents to view skin health as part of comprehensive kids oral care.”
Decreased Appetite
Some babies refuse to eat because chewing or sucking increases gum pressure.
Woodlawn Kids Dental notes, “Loss of appetite during teething is typical but temporary. Offering soft, cool foods can soothe sore gums while keeping nutrition on track. If feeding difficulties persist, it’s worth consulting a children’s dentist to rule out other oral health concerns during this critical time.”
Low-Grade Fever
Many parents report a slight temperature rise during teething, though high fevers should be evaluated by a doctor.
Woodlawn Kids Dental clarifies, “A mild temperature is a normal inflammatory response to teething. However, any fever over 38°C/100.4°F or other signs of illness aren’t from teething and warrant a pediatrician visit. Staying alert helps ensure teething doesn’t mask unrelated health issues.”
Sleep Disturbances
Teething pain can disrupt your baby’s sleep, making naps and bedtime a struggle.
Woodlawn Kids Dental emphasizes, “Nighttime teething pain can affect the whole household. A consistent bedtime routine, along with comfort strategies like a cold teething ring before sleep, can promote better rest. Early sleep associations also tie into long-term health and oral care routines.”
Caring for Teething Babies
Navigating teething isn’t just about managing discomfort—it’s an opportunity to build healthy habits from the start. Woodlawn Kids Dental expresses, “Caring for teething babies extends beyond soothing sore gums. Gently wiping the gums after feedings, avoiding sugary liquids in bottles, and introducing soft-bristled brushes when teeth appear all contribute to a strong foundation for lifelong oral health.”
They add, “It’s important to schedule a kids dental checkup by the first birthday or when the first tooth emerges. Early visits allow dentists to assess tooth alignment, cavity risks, and overall oral development. These appointments also educate parents on what to expect as more teeth come in.”
Teething is a journey filled with new experiences—for babies and parents alike. With the right support and knowledge, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By recognizing symptoms and applying thoughtful care strategies, families can ease the process while fostering healthy habits.
As Woodlawn Kids Dental reminds us, “Every drool, chew, and grin is part of your child’s growth. With attentive care and early guidance from a children’s dentist, you’re paving the way for healthy smiles that last a lifetime.”
