When do babies start teething?
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Most babies start teething between about 4 and 7 months, with the first tooth often appearing around 6 months. The two lower front teeth (central incisors) usually come in first.
The timing varies widely and tends to run in families, so a baby with no teeth by their first birthday can still be perfectly on track. Common signs of teething include drooling, swollen or tender gums, mild fussiness, and a strong urge to chew on something hard. A fever over 101°F (38.3°C) is not caused by teething and likely signals a separate illness worth checking.
To soothe a sore mouth, gently massage the gums or offer a firm rubber teething ring or a clean cold washcloth. Skip teething gels, homeopathic tablets, and amber necklaces, which can be unsafe.
What you can do
- Massage gums with a clean finger to ease discomfort
- Offer a firm rubber teether or clean cold (not frozen) washcloth
- Avoid teething gels, tablets, and amber necklaces
- Brush new teeth twice daily with a rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste
Based on AAP guidance. Always consult your pediatrician for personalized advice.
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