Baby Teething Facts for Parents

Having a new baby is not only a blessing but a fun new chapter for parents. For new parents, getting into a routine can take a few weeks or even a couple months. And just as you think you’ve perfected things, pow - teething starts and your entire routine goes down the drain.

Parents are often then left with a puzzling question of wondering how long teething lasts, so they know roughly when things can go back to normal. Unfortunately, there isn’t a baby teething timeline. Each child will start their teething process at different times and each tooth may take 1-2 months to fully come in.

Is My Baby Teething? Signs That Say Yes or No

In some babies, teething is the first sign of your child developing forward. Often teeth come in before your little one starts rolling over or crawling. While this is exciting for parents, it isn’t as exciting for babies. When babies start teething, their gums will swell, fever chances increase, drooling is consistent, and ear infection possibilities rise.

You may also notice a change in your childs appetite. Teething can cause some babies to want more milk and others want more baby food. It depends on what makes their teeth feel better. Don’t be alarmed if you’ve been nursing and now your baby prefers to use a bottle. Giving your child something they can chew on will help relieve their pain.

What Can Parents Give Babies to Help Relieve Teething Pain?  

While it may be a natural thought to put oral numbing gel on your childs gums, it’s not the best practice or product to use. Some oral gels have been found to contain benzocaine which is under scrutiny from the FDA. Instead, rub baby liquid Motrin on their gums. This not only helps relieve pain but also reduces their chances of having a fever.

If you opt to use a cold teething ring, make sure you do not put the ring around the childs neck or wrists. Some parents have purchased teething necklaces and while the name has the term necklace, it’s not actually meant to go around your childs neck. This could potentially harm your child.

A natural remedy is to rub your baby's gums with your fingers. This helps them be pain free and helps relieve some gum swelling.