Teething

Teething is the stage in which babies’ teeth start to come through their gums.

• Most babies get their first tooth when they're about 6 months old

• By age 3, most babies have all 20 of their baby teeth

• Teething babies are usually fussy, but despite what many people think, teething doesn't cause fever

Call your doctor if your baby is extremely fussy or has a fever higher than 100° F (37.8° C)—your baby is probably sick, not just teething.

A teething baby:

• Cries and fusses more than usual

• Doesn't sleep well

• Eats less than usual

• Drools

• Has reddened gums

• Chews on objects

To help your baby feel more comfortable:

• Give your baby something safe to chew on, such as a firm teething toy or cool, gel-filled teething ring

• Massage your baby’s gums with your finger or with ice

• Give your baby pain medicine, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if your baby is very uncomfortableGive your baby pain medicine, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if your baby is very uncomfortable

• Don’t use teething gels—they don't help much, and they may contain benzocaine, which causes serious problems in some babiesDon’t use teething gels—they don't help much, and they may contain benzocaine, which causes serious problems in some babies