Teething in Babies

08 August 2026

Teething is a major milestone in your child’s development, but it often comes with moments of discomfort and questions for parents. Around six months of age (sometimes earlier, sometimes later), the first milk tooth begins to push through the gums.

How can you recognise the signs of teething? What simple, safe steps can you take to comfort your baby every day? Here is a practical guide to help you navigate this period smoothly and safely.

1. The Clear Signs of Teething

Every child responds differently: some cut their teeth without showing any signs at all, while others experience more noticeable discomfort. The most common signs include:

♦ Excessive dribbling: Your baby salivates a lot, which protects their gums but can sometimes irritate their chin or the lower part of their face.

♦ The urge to chew on everything: They bring their fists or toys to their mouth to apply pressure to their tender gums.

♦ Red or swollen gums: The area where the tooth is preparing to break through may look slightly inflamed.

♦ Passing irritability: More frequent crying, heightened sensitivity, or slightly disrupted sleep.

♦ Flushed cheeks: One cheek often feels warmer or appears redder on the side where the tooth is coming through.

2. Simple Steps to Soothe Your Baby's Gums

There are physical, natural, and proven methods to support your child through this phase without relying on unnecessary or complex products.

Cold, a Natural Ally

Cold gently numbs the tender area and reduces the feeling of discomfort.

• Offer a chilled teething ring (cooled in the fridge, but never in the freezer, as extreme cold can damage the delicate mouth tissues).

• Ensure the ring meets European safety standards (CE mark) and is free from phthalates and BPA.

Gentle Gum Massage

With thoroughly washed hands, gently massage your baby’s gums using the tip of your index finger. This simple contact provides comforting pressure that helps relieve local tension.

Hygiene and Skincare

To prevent rashes caused by excess dribble:

• Gently dab your baby’s chin and neck dry with a soft cloth, avoiding any harsh rubbing.

• Apply a barrier cream or moisturiser suitable for infants to any irritated areas around the mouth.

3. Essential Safety Precautions

To protect your little one’s health and safety, certain practices once widely used are now strongly discouraged by early childhood professionals:

♦ Avoid amber or teething necklaces: They pose serious choking and strangulation hazards if the string or beads break.

♦ Avoid hard, unsuitable foods: Do not offer pieces of crusty bread or raw vegetables unless your child is old enough and developmentally ready to chew them safely, as these present a choking risk.

♦ Exercise caution with anaesthetic gels: Do not use over-the-counter teething gels without consulting a healthcare professional first.

4. When to Consult a Specialist

It is essential not to attribute every symptom to teething. Whilst teething can cause mild discomfort or a temporary dip in mood, it does not make a child unwell.

If you notice any of the following symptoms, teething is unlikely to be the main cause:

• A fever above 38.5 °C or a fever lasting longer than 48 hours.

• Frequent diarrhoea or vomiting.

• A cough, significant runny nose, or breathing difficulties.

• Lethargy, an unusual change in behaviour, or inconsolable crying.

If you observe any of these signs or have any doubts about your child's overall health, contact your GP, paediatrician, or local health visitor. Only a qualified healthcare professional can provide an accurate medical diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.