One day your baby is happily doing their thing.
Then suddenly they're drooling everywhere, chewing on everything they can get their hands on, waking up at night and generally acting like their mouth has personally offended them.
Welcome to teething.
If you're wondering when teething starts, what the signs are, how long it lasts, or what you can actually do to help, you're in the right place.
Teething is a normal part of your baby's development, but that doesn't mean it's always easy—for babies or their parents.
Here's everything you need to know about those first tiny teeth.
When Does Teething Start?
Most babies get their first tooth somewhere around 6 months of age, although there's a pretty wide range of what's normal.
Some babies start teething earlier. Others don't get their first tooth until closer to their first birthday.
And occasionally, a baby is born with a tooth already showing. Yes, really.
There isn't a perfect teething schedule because every baby develops at their own pace.
You may notice signs of teething before you actually see a tooth. Your baby's gums can begin changing before that first little white tooth makes its appearance.
What Are the Signs of Teething?
Teething can look a little different from baby to baby, but some common signs include:
Increased drooling
Suddenly your baby's shirt is soaked approximately five minutes after you put it on.
Extra drooling is extremely common during this stage.
Chewing on everything
Hands.
Toys.
Blankets.
Your fingers.
Anything within reach.
Babies naturally explore through their mouths, and chewing can also provide pressure against their gums that may feel soothing.
Sore or swollen gums
You may notice that your baby's gums look red, swollen or more sensitive than usual.
You might also be able to see or feel a small bump where a tooth is getting ready to emerge.
Fussiness
A baby who is normally pretty content may suddenly become more irritable.
It's not surprising. Imagine having something slowly pushing its way through your gums.
Not exactly a spa day.
Changes in sleep
Some babies have more difficulty settling or wake more frequently while they're teething.
That doesn't mean every disrupted night is caused by teething, though. Babies have plenty of other reasons for waking, too.
Pulling at their ears or cheeks
Some babies rub their cheeks or pull at their ears when they're uncomfortable.
However, ear pulling can also be associated with an ear infection or another issue, so don't automatically assume it's teething.
What Does Teething Actually Feel Like?
Think about the pressure involved in a tooth moving through gum tissue.
Your baby may experience soreness, pressure or tenderness in the area.
That's one reason chewing can be so appealing.
The pressure created by chewing on something appropriate can provide a different sensation against the gums and may temporarily help soothe them.
This is also why babies can become very particular about what they want to chew.
Something soft.
Something firm.
Something textured.
Something cold.
And sometimes, apparently, your forearm.
What Order Do Baby Teeth Come In?
Baby teeth generally arrive in a fairly predictable pattern, although there are plenty of exceptions.
A typical sequence is:
1. Lower central incisors
These are usually the first teeth to appear and are the two little teeth in the centre of the bottom gum.
2. Upper central incisors
Next come the two front teeth on the top.
3. Upper lateral incisors
The teeth immediately beside the upper front teeth typically follow.
4. Lower lateral incisors
The corresponding teeth on the bottom generally arrive next.
5. First molars
These larger teeth come farther back in the mouth.
6. Canines
The pointed teeth between the incisors and molars usually follow.
7. Second molars
The back molars are often among the last baby teeth to arrive.
By around age three, most children have their full set of 20 primary teeth.
But remember: the order and timing can vary.
If your baby's teeth aren't following the exact schedule you found on the internet at 2 a.m., that doesn't necessarily mean anything is wrong.
Does Teething Cause a Fever?
This is one of the biggest questions parents have.
Teething can cause some temporary discomfort and may be associated with a slight increase in body temperature, but a true fever shouldn't automatically be blamed on teething.
If your baby has a fever, especially a significant or persistent one, it's important to consider other possible causes and speak with your healthcare provider when appropriate.
The same goes for other symptoms that seem more serious than ordinary teething discomfort.
Teething is a normal developmental process.
It shouldn't be used as an explanation for every symptom your baby develops.
Does Teething Cause Diarrhea?
This one is also debated constantly by exhausted parents everywhere.
Babies may have changes in their bowel movements during teething, but significant diarrhea isn't something you should automatically chalk up to a tooth coming in.
Babies at this age are also putting everything in their mouths, which means they're encountering plenty of new germs and substances.
If your baby has persistent diarrhea, vomiting, signs of dehydration or seems unwell, contact your healthcare provider.
Why Is My Baby Drooling So Much?
Teething and drooling are practically best friends.
As babies develop, their saliva production increases and they become better at moving their mouths and exploring objects.
When teething is happening at the same time, the combination can result in a spectacular amount of drool.
The constant moisture around the mouth can also irritate the skin.
A soft cloth can help gently keep the area dry, and changing damp clothing or bibs can help keep your baby's skin more comfortable.
Why Does My Baby Want to Chew Everything?
Because chewing is useful.
Babies use their mouths as a way to explore the world.
Mouthing objects allows them to experience different:
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Textures
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Shapes
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Sizes
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Temperatures
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Levels of resistance
And when teething enters the picture, chewing can also feel good on sore gums.
So when your baby suddenly decides that every object in the house is a snack, there's usually more going on than simply trying to drive you crazy.
Although they may also be doing that.
How Can I Soothe My Baby During Teething?
There isn't one solution that works for every baby.
You may need to experiment with a few different approaches to figure out what your baby likes.
Offer something appropriate to chew
A purpose-designed teething toy can give your baby something safe and appropriate to mouth and chew.
Different babies prefer different textures, so you may find that your baby has a definite favourite.
Try something cool
Some babies enjoy the sensation of something cool against their gums.
If you're using a teething product that can be chilled, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Avoid extremely cold items or anything that could damage delicate gum tissue.
Gently massage the gums
With clean hands, you can gently massage your baby's gums with a finger.
Some babies love this.
Others will look at you as though you've deeply betrayed them.
Both reactions are normal.
Give them plenty of opportunities to explore
Teething doesn't have to mean sitting around waiting for the next tooth.
Age-appropriate sensory and developmental play can keep babies engaged while they explore textures, shapes and movement.
What Should You NOT Give a Teething Baby?
There are plenty of teething remedies floating around online.
Not all of them are a good idea.
Avoid anything that could become a choking hazard
Anything given to a baby to chew should be appropriate for their age and developmental stage.
Inspect teething products regularly and stop using anything that becomes damaged.
Be careful with teething necklaces and jewelry
Teething necklaces, bracelets and other jewelry can present serious safety risks, including choking and strangulation hazards.
They're not worth the risk.
Avoid frozen-hard objects
Extremely cold or frozen objects can be too hard against sensitive gums.
If you're using something chilled for teething relief, follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Don't use products containing ingredients that aren't intended for babies
Be particularly cautious about products marketed as quick fixes for teething pain.
Always check the ingredients and speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you're unsure whether something is appropriate for your baby.
When Should I Call the Doctor?
Most teething is uncomfortable but harmless.
However, not every symptom that happens around the same time as teething is caused by teething.
Contact your healthcare provider if your baby:
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Has a significant or persistent fever
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Seems unusually lethargic or difficult to wake
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Is refusing fluids
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Shows signs of dehydration
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Has persistent vomiting or diarrhea
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Has difficulty breathing
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Seems to be in significant or unusual pain
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Has symptoms that concern you
Trust your instincts.
You know your baby.
If something doesn't seem right, it's completely reasonable to ask.
How Do I Take Care of My Baby's First Teeth?
As soon as that first tooth appears, it's time to start thinking about dental care.
Baby teeth may eventually fall out, but they're still important.
They help children chew, speak and maintain space for permanent teeth.
Start brushing those little teeth with an appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste according to current dental guidance, and establish good oral-care habits early.
It's also a good idea to establish a relationship with a dental professional and follow their recommendations for your child's first dental visit and ongoing care.
The earlier oral care becomes part of the routine, the less strange it feels to your child.
The Teething Timeline: A Quick Look
Here's the simplified version:
Around 0–6 months:
Your baby may begin showing an increased interest in mouthing and chewing, although the first tooth may not appear yet.
Around 6–12 months:
This is a common window for those first teeth to arrive.
Around 12–24 months:
More teeth continue to appear, including molars and canines.
Around 2–3 years:
Most children have their complete set of 20 primary teeth.
Again, these are general guidelines—not deadlines.
Your baby didn't read the developmental calendar.
The Bottom Line on Teething
Teething is one of those parenting stages that can feel like it lasts forever while you're in the middle of it.
There's drool.
There's chewing.
There's interrupted sleep.
There's the mysterious disappearance of every clean shirt you've put on your baby.
But it's also a pretty amazing developmental milestone.
Those tiny first teeth are the beginning of a whole new stage of eating, smiling, talking and growing.
The best thing you can do is provide your baby with appropriate ways to explore and soothe their gums, keep an eye on their overall health, and remember that teething doesn't have to look exactly the same for every baby.
And when in doubt, ask your healthcare provider or dentist.
Because sometimes it's teething.
And sometimes it's just Tuesday.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teething
When do babies start teething?
Most babies get their first tooth around six months, but the timing can vary considerably.
What are the first signs of teething?
Common signs include increased drooling, chewing, sore or swollen gums, fussiness and changes in sleep.
How long does teething last?
Teething isn't one short event. New teeth can continue appearing over the first few years of life, with most children having 20 primary teeth by around age three.
Can teething cause a fever?
Teething may cause a slight increase in temperature, but a true fever should not automatically be attributed to teething.
Why does my baby chew on their hands?
Babies naturally explore with their mouths, and chewing can also provide soothing pressure when their gums are uncomfortable.
What can I give my baby for teething?
Age-appropriate teething toys, gentle gum massage and appropriately chilled products may help soothe discomfort. Always follow product instructions and speak with your healthcare provider if you're concerned.
Does teething cause diarrhea?
Significant or persistent diarrhea shouldn't automatically be attributed to teething. If your baby is unwell or showing signs of dehydration, contact a healthcare provider.
When should my baby see a dentist?
Dental organizations generally recommend establishing dental care early in childhood. Your dentist can advise you on the appropriate timing based on your baby's teeth and overall development.
Teething is temporary. The memories—and the photos of that first little tooth—are forever.
Welcome to one of the messiest, drooliest, most exciting milestones of babyhood.