Most babies start teething somewhere between 4 and 10 months, but there's a wide normal range. The first tooth to come through is usually a lower front tooth, with the upper front teeth often appearing a couple of months later.
Teething can come in waves — a difficult few days, then a quiet stretch. Many parents notice symptoms a few days before they can see or feel the tooth.
- Dribbling more than usual
- Chewing on hands, toys, or the side of the cot
- Sore or swollen-looking gums
- One flushed cheek
- Mild fussiness or unsettled behaviour
- Slightly disturbed sleep
- A small white or sharp point visible under the gum, or you can feel it
The aim is gentle counter-pressure, something cool to chew, and care for the skin around the chin.
- Chilled teething ring — cool in the fridge, never frozen solid. Offer for short periods.
- Gum rubbing with a clean finger — gentle pressure for around 30 seconds can be soothing.
- Damp muslin to chew — wet, wring out, and fold a clean muslin for baby to chew on.
- Keep the chin dry — pat with a soft muslin. A barrier balm can help if the skin is sore.
- Pain relief if needed — speak to your pharmacist or GP about suitable pain relief if baby is clearly uncomfortable. Always follow the product guidance for your baby's age and weight.
It is easy to put any new symptom down to teething. Some signs are more likely to be illness and worth checking with a healthcare professional:
- A high fever (37.8°C or above)
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- A heavy nasal discharge or a cough
- Refusing feeds for several hours or unusually drowsy
If baby seems very unwell or you feel something is not right, contact your GP, NHS 111, or emergency services. Trust your instincts.
A teething stretch can be tiring. You don't have to fix every wakeful night to get through it. Tag-team where you can, lower the bar on the rest of the day, and take small breaks when baby is settled with someone else.
Calm Mum's Baby Help Hub includes a Teething Support guide and a “What should I try next?” assistant for the harder moments.
- Fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, or a rash — these are unlikely to be teething
- Poor feeding or unusual drowsiness
- Baby seems very unwell or you feel something is not right
- Persistent ear-pulling with other signs of illness — could be an ear infection rather than teething
Frequently asked questions
When do babies usually start teething?
Teething often starts somewhere between 4 and 10 months, but it varies widely. Some babies cut their first tooth earlier, others much later. The first tooth to appear is usually a lower front tooth.
What are the signs my baby is teething?
Dribbling more than usual, chewing on hands and toys, sore or swollen-looking gums, one flushed cheek, mild fussiness, and slightly disturbed sleep are all common. A new tooth visible or sharp under the gum is the clearest sign.
Can teething cause a fever or diarrhoea?
Teething is unlikely to cause a high fever (37.8°C or above), diarrhoea, vomiting, or a heavy nasal discharge. These are more likely to be signs of illness — contact your GP or NHS 111 if you're unsure, especially in younger babies.
Are teething necklaces or gels safe?
Amber teething necklaces are a choking and strangulation risk and are not recommended. Teething gels containing benzocaine are not recommended for babies. Speak to your pharmacist or GP about suitable pain relief if baby is clearly uncomfortable.
What helps with teething pain at night?
A cool (never frozen) teething ring, gentle gum rubbing with a clean finger, and a damp muslin to chew are all worth trying. Keep the chin dry to protect the skin. If baby is clearly uncomfortable, ask your pharmacist or GP about suitable pain relief.
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Calm Mum is educational support, not medical advice. It does not replace your GP, midwife, health visitor or emergency services. If you are worried about your baby's health, seek advice from a healthcare professional.