🦷 Baby Teething Guide
Month-by-month tooth eruption timeline, symptom checker, and safe relief tips — for every stage of teething
The first tooth typically appears between 6–10 months — usually a lower central incisor. By age 3, most children have all 20 primary teeth. Teething causes drooling and mild irritability but does NOT cause fever above 38°C. Any high fever during teething is a separate illness and requires a doctor's assessment.
📅 Find Your Baby's Teething Stage
🗓️ Eruption Timeline — All 20 Baby Teeth
Tap any tooth to mark it as erupted. Teeth highlighted in pink = expected around your baby's current age.
😣 Common Teething Symptoms
💊 Teething Relief — What Works & What to Avoid
Cool (not frozen) teething ring from the fridge. Cold reduces gum inflammation. Never freeze — too hard can damage gums.
Gently rub baby's gums with a clean finger for 2 minutes. Counter-pressure relieves aching discomfort.
Chilled cucumber strip, cold banana slice in a mesh feeder. Soothing and nutritious.
A clean wet washcloth kept in the fridge. Let baby chew on it under supervision.
Age-appropriate paracetamol can help with severe pain. Ibuprofen only for 6M+. Always use correct dose. Doctor's advice required.
Many over-the-counter teething gels contain benzocaine which is unsafe for babies. Avoid unless specifically prescribed by your doctor.
🪥 Baby Dental Care from the First Tooth
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
When do babies start teething?
Most babies get their first tooth between 6 and 10 months. Some as early as 4 months, some as late as 12 months — both are normal.
Does teething cause fever?
Teething may cause a mild temperature up to 38°C but does NOT cause high fever. A temperature above 38.5°C during teething is a sign of illness — see a doctor.
What if my baby has no teeth at 12 months?
About 1 in 10 babies have no teeth at 12 months. This is usually fine, but mention it to your paediatrician for reassurance. Delayed teething can sometimes be linked to nutrition or thyroid issues.
👩⚕️ What Paediatricians Say About Teething
The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) recommends the first dental visit at 12 months or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing — whichever comes first.
- IAP confirms: teething does NOT cause fever above 38°C — this is one of the most common myths among Indian parents
- Teething gels containing benzocaine are not recommended for babies — risk of methemoglobinemia
- Start gentle gum cleaning with a soft wet cloth from birth; switch to a baby toothbrush at the first tooth
- Avoid sweet liquids in a bottle at bedtime — "bottle caries" is a common and preventable problem in Indian toddlers