teething risks and benefits for patients

Overview

Teething is the natural process when a baby's first teeth break through the gums. It usually starts around 6 months of age, but it can happen earlier or later.

Yes, teething is a normal part of growing up. All children go through it as their baby teeth come in.

Teething affects babies and young children, usually starting between 4 and 7 months. All children eventually get their baby teeth, though the timing varies.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Mild gum soreness and redness
• Increased drooling
• A desire to chew on things
• Being fussier than usual
• A small rise in temperature, but not a true fever

Symptoms in children

• Gum swelling or tender spots where teeth are coming through
• More biting or chewing than usual
• Waking a bit more at night
• Mild irritability

Causes

Main causes

• Baby teeth moving upward from the jaw and through the gums
• The body's normal growth process

Risk factors

• Age: most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months
• Family history: the timing of teething can run in families

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child has a true fever, a spreading rash, or seems very ill
• If diarrhoea or vomiting continues
• If your child is in significant pain or will not drink

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are unsure whether symptoms are from teething or something else
• At routine check-ups, ask your health visitor or doctor about teething and dental care

Diagnosis

Teething is diagnosed by looking at your child's gums and seeing the typical signs. There is no test for teething.

Tests that may be done

• No tests are needed for simple teething
• If your child seems ill, a doctor may check for other causes like ear, throat, or urinary infections

What to expect at your appointment

A doctor or nurse will ask about your child's symptoms and look in their mouth. They will tell you whether the symptoms are from teething or another illness, and help you plan next steps.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on easing discomfort while teeth come through. It usually involves simple home care, not medicine.

Self-care at home

• Wipe your baby's face to remove drool and avoid skin irritation
• Give a clean, cool (not frozen) teething ring to chew
• Rub your baby's gums gently with a clean finger
• Offer a clean, damp cloth that has been chilled in the fridge
• Maintain normal feeding and brushing routines

Medical treatments

If your child seems very uncomfortable, a doctor or pharmacist can advise on suitable pain relief for your baby's age. Always follow their instructions carefully. Avoid teething gels or products unless a healthcare professional recommends them, because some are not safe for young children.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for teething.

Living with this condition

Teething is a short phase. Keep to your child's normal routine as much as possible, and offer extra cuddles when they are cranky.

Lifestyle tips

• Encourage chewing on safe, clean objects
• Keep your baby's chin dry to prevent skin soreness
• Begin gentle gum and tooth cleaning as soon as the first tooth appears
• Check in with your health visitor or doctor if you feel unsure

Diet and exercise

There are no special foods to prevent teething. Continue your child's usual breast milk, formula, or age-appropriate foods. For babies over 6 months, cool (not frozen) foods like a peeled cucumber may help, but always supervise while eating.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Looking after a teething baby can be exhausting and stressful. It is normal to feel frustrated sometimes. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your health visitor, doctor, or a trusted friend. Your wellbeing matters too.

Prevention

Teething itself cannot be prevented. It is a normal part of development. You can prevent gum irritation by keeping your baby's mouth and face clean.

Vaccines

Vaccines do not prevent teething. They protect against infections that can cause fever or illness, which are sometimes mistaken for teething.

Screening programmes

There is no screening for teething. A dentist can check your child's teeth at routine appointments.

Complications

If left untreated

• Teething is not a condition that needs treatment and does not cause complications by itself
• If symptoms are from another illness, ignoring them could delay care

Long-term outlook

Teething is a temporary phase. Every child goes through it, and it usually passes in a few days for each tooth. Your help and comfort can make it easier for both of you.

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