Your Guide to Your Baby’s First Tooth: Signs and Soothing Tips

Is your little one suddenly drooling more, gnawing on their hands, and fussier than usual? If so, these could be signs your baby’s first tooth might be appearing soon. While teething is a regular part of development, it can be a confusing time for parents.

This guide tells you when to expect the first tooth, helps you spot the key symptoms, and gives you practical ways to soothe your baby.

When Does a Baby’s First Tooth Appear?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), your baby's first tooth usually appears between 6 and 12 months.

However, this timeline varies. For example, a 2024 global review found that the first tooth can appear around 6 months in North American babies but closer to 13.5 months in Asian babies.

Genetics is also a key factor. A systematic review in the Journal of International Dental and Medical Research shows that genes control the timing of tooth eruption, which is why your baby might follow a similar pattern to you or your partner.

Regardless of when teething begins, you’ll usually see the two bottom front teeth appear first.

Signs of Baby’s First Tooth Coming Through

How can you tell if a baby’s first tooth is coming through? While many parents link teething to issues like a fever or sleep disruption, the AAP notes that the baby's actual discomfort is usually mild. Here are the only symptoms proven to be caused by teething:

Increased drooling

You’ll notice more drool, which may cause a mild rash on your baby’s chin or face. Gently wipe your baby's chin and face throughout the day to prevent skin irritation. Using a bib can also help keep their clothes and skin dry.

Urge to chew

Baby’s first tooth coming out? Your baby’s constant urge to chew is their way of finding relief from teething pain.

Your baby will likely try to put everything in their mouth to counter the pressure on their gums. A 2023 systematic review in the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry found that the desire to bite is the most reported sign of teething among parents.

Mild irritability from gum pain

Your baby's gums may get sore and swollen, causing some fussiness. But according to the AAP, the pain shouldn't cause severe crying or sleep problems.

Teething symptoms usually last just a few days and only happen as a new tooth breaks through the gum. You can expect your baby to be cranky or irritable for a few days until the tooth is fully out.

The Truth About Teething and Fevers

Teething doesn't cause a true fever. While it might slightly raise your baby's temperature, the AAP emphasizes that a temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) signals an illness, not teething.

If your baby has a fever, diarrhea, or a runny nose, these are signs of a separate sickness. Always call your pediatrician if your baby has a fever.

5 Simple Ways to Soothe Teething

A 2020 review on teething symptoms and management shows that non-pharmacological methods, such as chilled teething rings or massaging gums, are effective in relieving discomfort.

Here are simple and safe ways to provide relief:

1. Offer something cold.

A chilled (not frozen) teething toy can help numb your baby’s gums. Look for teethers made of solid silicone or rubber. These are easy for your baby to hold and safe for them to chew on.

If your baby has started on solids, you can also offer them cold, soft foods like yogurt or unsweetened applesauce.

2. Apply gentle pressure.

A gentle finger massage on the gums can help relieve some of your baby's teething discomfort.

Using a clean finger, you can gently but firmly rub your baby’s gums. The counter-pressure can be very soothing and offer temporary relief from the pain.

3. Give cool water.

If your baby is over six months old, you can offer them sips of cool water in a sippy cup with a soft spout to help soothe their gums and keep them hydrated.

4. Provide comfort.

Extra cuddles, rocking, or a warm bath can sometimes soothe an irritable baby. That sense of security helps them cope with the discomfort.

5. Distract them with a toy or song.

A new toy, a favorite song, or a change of scenery can often distract your baby from the feeling in their gums long enough to provide relief.

For Your Baby’s Safety

While there are many safe ways to ease teething discomfort, some popular remedies can be risky. Here’s what the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends avoiding for your baby’s safety:

• Teething necklaces are choking and strangulation hazards.
• Numbing gels with benzocaine or lidocaine since these can be harmful to babies.
• Homeopathic teething tablets, which are not regulated and may contain harmful ingredients.

When Should You Call Your Doctor?

Contact your pediatrician if you notice any of the following:

• Your baby has no teeth by 18 months of age.
• They have a high fever, diarrhea, or vomiting.
• Their gums are bleeding or show signs of infection, like pus.
• Your baby is inconsolable or seems to be in severe pain.
• The discomfort is persistently interfering with their ability to eat or sleep for several days.

Your doctor can ensure everything is on track and rule out any other issues.

The arrival of your baby's first tooth can be both exciting and challenging. Use these simple tips to help manage their teething and keep your precious little one happy and content.

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