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Let’s get to know teething symptoms – and how to soothe them

That very first milk-tooth smile is one of the cutest family moments. It’s a big milestone – but the process isn’t always easy for babies or parents. If, as a parent, you understand what’s going on around teething – the early signs and symptoms – you’ll be better placed to help your little one get through this phase more comfortably.

Teething is natural. Some babies sail through it; for others, it’s a bumpy ride. The classic signs are lots of dribbling, fussiness, and going off food – and there are a few other clues that this often-tricky chapter has begun.

At first the gums itch and swell. Your baby will put everything in their mouth and chew to ease the sensation. The dribble is almost constant, and they can barely keep up with swallowing it. If it trickles back or they swallow the wrong way, it may make them cough. Blood flow to the nasal lining can increase and mucus production ramps up, so their nose may run as if they’ve caught a cold.

When does teething start?

A smiling baby with the lower central incisors just visible

The timing varies widely. Some babies show first signs around 4 months; others only after 6 months – even 8–10 months. Early symptoms are often invisible: your child feels discomfort as deep tooth roots develop. This can last weeks before the tooth tip breaks through the gum. Teeth usually start appearing around 6 months, and all 20 milk teeth generally emerge by age 3.

Does the order of eruption matter?

No. There’s a typical pattern – the central incisors first, then the lateral incisors – but don’t worry if your child’s order differs.

What are the symptoms of teething?

Heavy dribbling
Swollen, sensitive, painful gums
Raised temperature (but not a fever)
Fussiness and putting more things in the mouth than usual
Sleep disturbances
Nappy rash
Refusing food
Ear-area discomfort, ear pulling
Flushed cheeks
Catarrhal symptoms, runny nose
Looser stools, sometimes greenish or mucusy
Red, sore skin around the mouth from saliva

Do note: catarrh-like symptoms and ear pain can also be due to illness – so see a doctor even if teething signs are present.

Easing your child’s discomfort

Some babies show few signs; others find teething very uncomfortable, with localised pain. If your little one cries a lot, take it seriously and aim to ease the pain.

For mild symptoms, a few tweaks can help. Make purées slightly looser so they rub less on sore gums. Breastfeeding can also feel tricky – the vacuum in the mouth may irritate gums – so you could try a trainer cup, though your baby may or may not accept it.

A baby chews a teether to relieve teething discomfort

Teethers are a tried-and-tested solution. Babies love pressing them against sore gums; if you chill them first, they can numb the area a little and ease pain more effectively. Choose safe, baby-friendly materials, chill in the fridge, but never freeze and never offer frozen.

If your baby seems really distressed and it’s affecting daily life, ask your GP/health visitor which pain relief is appropriate. If you consider topical gels, check the ingredients carefully – some may contain alcohol or potential allergens you wouldn’t want to use.

If nappy rash flares, start treatment straight away as inflammation can spread quickly. For more detail, see our earlier article on nappy rash symptoms and solutions.

When the skin around the mouth looks red and sore, think of the constant dribble during teething. It’s very uncomfortable – saliva stings the skin, and wiping can irritate and hurt. Barrier/healing creams that form a protective layer can help – ask your GP or health visitor which product to choose.

There’s also an emotional side: teething can lower mood. Pick your baby up more often and soothe them. With constant dribbling and possible rashes or diarrhoea, you may need to change clothes frequently – which unsettled babies can find tough. Choose easy-on, easy-off outfits. LiaaBébé bamboo-fibre babywear can be a blessing on fussy days – its super stretch makes changes feel almost effortless.

Mum uses a finger brush to clean her baby’s mouth

If you avoid cleaning existing teeth for fear of causing pain, infection can develop on the gum surface and lead to inflammation. Be gentle – avoid the swollen, tender areas and clean the rest.

Protecting milk teeth is our job as parents. It matters what foods – and especially drinks – we offer. Unnecessary sugary drinks and sweets don’t just harm teeth; they also mean excess carbohydrate load. With good oral hygiene, you can do a lot to keep your child’s teeth healthy.

When should we see a doctor?

If there’s no sign of a first tooth by age 1.
If teething has started but your child struggles – feeding poorly, sleeping badly, with catarrhal cough, ear pain, or pronounced nappy rash.
If a raised temperature becomes a fever.

Regular paediatric dental visits teach children that health matters. If they get used to check-ups early, they develop a sense of responsibility for self-care later on. It’s useful, too: any problems can be spotted and treated promptly. These appointments also give parents practical guidance on caring for children’s teeth.

Sources:

NHS – Baby teething symptoms (what to look for).

NHS – Tips for helping your teething baby (soothing and pain relief).