How Long Does Teething Last?

Is your baby fussier than usual? Are they drooling and putting everything in their mouths? 

Teething might be the reason for their discomfort. 

In this article, we'll tell you how to spot the signs of teething, what to expect, how to help your little one feel a bit better, and why it would be a good idea to talk to a pediatric dentist in Burton, too. 

Signs Your Little One Is Teething 

Your baby already has all their primary teeth nested under their gums. They developed when your little one was in your womb and at around six months of age, they will start popping through the gums. 

Your baby may show signs of teething even before you can see a tooth emerging through the gums: 

  • Excessive drooling usually accompanied by a rash around the mouth 
  • Chewing, biting, rubbing, and putting everything they can find in their mouth 
  • Fussy and hard to settle 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • More frequent wakings at night 
  • Swollen and tender gums 
How Long Does Teething Last

How Long Will Teething Last 

Seeing your little one in such a fussy mood might be hard, but in most cases, the entire ordeal is over in just a few days. But, as we know, babies are different, and some of them may experience these symptoms for longer. 

The good news is that they (and you) get some breaks as their teeth will erupt at regular intervals. Here's an estimated timeline: 

  • 4-6 Months: - The first teeth to erupt are the two bottom ones (central incisors).
  • 7-9 Months - The top front teeth (central incisors) are next, followed by the lateral incisors. 
  • 10-14 Months - The first molars might erupt around this age. 
  • 15-18 Months - Next come the canines. 
  • 19-24 Months - The second molars, at the back of the mouth, may begin to come in.
  • 2-3 Years - By the time your child is 3 years old, they may have all 20 of their primary teeth.

How to Help Your Baby During Teething 

Try to picture it this way: as the tooth erupts, it needs to break through the gums and this can create quite a bit of discomfort. Your baby's teeth will be tender and swollen, so everything that could help numb the pain for a bit will make them happier. Here are some ideas: 

  • Give them a teething toy to rub their gums with or chew on. For a more calming effect, you can also try freezing or refrigerating the toy for a few hours. 
  • Rub their gums with your clean finger or a finger toothbrush to alleviate some of their discomfort. 
  • If your child is old enough, you can give them cold fruits or veggies, such as cucumbers, peach or apple slices, or even cold yogurt. 
  • Clean their face with a soft cloth as often as possible so they don't get a rash around their mouth from the drooling.

Can a Dentist Help? 

A pediatric dentist can give you some tips on how to help your baby during teething as well as make sure that their teeth are growing properly. 

If your child is getting their first tooth, call the team at Sunflower Pediatric Dentistry to book their first dental appointment. 

You can contact us online or call our office at (440) 273-8104

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