When a baby's gums are tender, the safest first steps are usually the simplest: gentle pressure from a clean finger and a firm rubber teether used with supervision. Several products marketed for teething are not recommended because their risks outweigh their benefit.
What teething can look like
The timing varies. The first teeth often begin to appear at about 4 to 7 months, and children usually have 20 primary teeth by about age 3. An eruption chart is a general guide, not a deadline.
If you are concerned about your child's tooth development or symptoms, ask the child's dentist or pediatrician rather than relying only on a chart.
Start with gentle pressure and a firm teether
The FDA recommends simple, supervised comfort measures:
- Massage the tender gum with a clean finger.
- Offer a firm rubber teething ring made for the child's age.
- Supervise the child while the teether is in use.
- Keep the ring cool if its instructions allow, but do not freeze it until it becomes hard.
Check teethers for damage and follow the manufacturer's cleaning, age, and replacement instructions.
Skip numbing gels and homeopathic teething products
The FDA says benzocaine and lidocaine products should not be used for teething pain in infants and young children. They provide little or no benefit for teething and can cause serious harm. The FDA also warns against homeopathic teething tablets and similar products marketed for this purpose.
Before giving a baby any medicine for mouth pain, ask the child's pediatrician or dentist what is appropriate.
Do not use amber necklaces or other teething jewelry
Amber necklaces, bracelets, and similar jewelry can cause choking or strangulation. Watching the child does not remove those hazards. Use a supervised teether designed for chewing instead.
Do not blame every symptom on teething
A baby may drool, want to chew, or seem more irritable while teeth are coming in. Symptoms such as diarrhea, a significant fever, or a rash should not simply be dismissed as teething. Contact the child's pediatrician when symptoms concern you.
Begin brushing with the first tooth
Once the first tooth appears, brush twice each day with a child-sized, soft-bristled brush and an age-appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste. Plan the first dental visit when that first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday.
Two questions parents often ask
Can I put a teething ring in the freezer?
The FDA advises against a frozen ring that becomes very hard because it can hurt tender gums. Follow the product instructions and supervise your baby while it is being used.
Is an amber necklace safe if I am watching?
No. Teething jewelry still creates choking and strangulation hazards. Choose a firm rubber teether designed for chewing.
Questions about your baby's first teeth?
To make an appointment with Seahorse Kids Dental, call (310) 596-1111. Medication questions and concerning illness symptoms should be directed to the child's pediatrician or other appropriate medical professional.
This information is educational and does not replace individualized dental or medical advice.
Sources and provenance
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Safely Soothing Teething Pain in Infants and Children.
- American Dental Association MouthHealthy, Baby Teeth.
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Parent FAQ.