Teething Pain: Soothing Your Baby Without the Guesswork

Teething can frustrate both baby and parent. Most babies get their first tooth around six months, but it can start as early as three months or later than a year. Expect more drooling, chewing, and short spells of fussiness—not a long high fever or severe illness. Here are clear, safe ways to help your child feel better and to know when to get medical help.

Safe soothing methods that really work

Try a cold, clean teething ring or a chilled (not frozen) wet washcloth for the baby to chew on. The cold eases gum swelling and pressure. Gently rubbing the gums with a clean finger gives quick relief because direct pressure helps. Offer firm, age-appropriate chew toys when they’re ready—do not give small or soft items that could break apart.

Breastfeeding or skin-to-skin time calms many babies. Feeding can distract and soothe; if your baby feeds less, don’t panic—brief changes in appetite are common. For older infants who safely eat solids, chilled pieces of banana or a cold carrot (under supervision) can help with chewing and keep them occupied.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help for short periods, but only after checking the correct dose with your pediatrician or pharmacist. Don’t give aspirin to children. Avoid topical benzocaine products for babies and toddlers—medical guidelines warn they can cause a dangerous blood condition called methemoglobinemia.

What’s normal—and what needs a doctor

Normal teething signs: drooling, mild gum soreness, increased chewing, short bouts of irritability, and slight sleep changes. Diarrhea, high fever, or prolonged crankiness are not typical teething symptoms. If your baby has a temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) and is under 3 months old, call your doctor right away. For older infants, seek care if the fever is high, they refuse to feed, are unusually sleepy, have trouble breathing, or show a rash.

Keep the mouth clean. Wipe newborn gums with a soft damp cloth. Once teeth appear, gently brush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) for babies under 3, and a pea-size amount after age 3. Regular care prevents early tooth decay even before many teeth show up.

Teething is temporary and usually manageable at home. Use simple, safe tricks first, check medicine doses with a professional, and contact your pediatrician if symptoms feel severe or unusual. You’ll get through this phase—and your baby will, too.