Every child goes through teething, and it’s a normal part of growing up. Parents often wonder when this phase will be over. We’ll dive into the timeline, stages, and signs of teething. Also, we’ll look at ways to ease the pain.
Key Takeaways:
- The teething process in children occurs in five stages, starting around six months of age.
- Teething symptoms include sore gums, excessive drooling, and increased irritability.
- Teething typically lasts a little over two years until a child has a full set of 20 primary teeth.
- There are various remedies and techniques to alleviate teething pain, such as teething rings and massaging the gums.
- Understanding the teething timeline and stages can help parents provide the necessary support and care for their child during this period.
The 5 Stages of Teething in Kids
Children go through five teething stages. Each one shows new primary teeth coming in, helping the child’s teeth grow. Knowing these stages helps parents guide their child through teething.
Stage 1: 0-6 months
Babies have all 20 of their primary teeth hidden under the gums when they’re born. However, these teeth won’t show up yet. They will start to come out later.
Stage 2: 6 months
At 6 months old, babies’ central incisors (front teeth) may start coming through the gums. These are the first teeth to show. Babies might be a bit fussy during this time.
Stage 3: 10-14 months
Between 10 and 14 months, babies’ primary molars come through. These are the big, flat teeth at the back of their mouth. This stage can make babies extra drooly and cranky.
Stage 4: 16-22 months
When babies are 16 to 22 months old, they’ll get their canines, or “fang” teeth. These are important for chewing. Babies might be more uncomfortable, but there are ways to help them feel better.
Stage 5: 25-33 months
Late in teething, between 25 to 33 months, babies get their big molars. These are needed for grinding up food. After this stage, most children have all their primary teeth.
Remember, the teething process is different for every child. Some may start teething earlier or later than others. If parents have worries about their child’s teething, they should talk to the pediatrician.
Signs of Teething
Teething is a process babies go through as their first teeth come in. It’s natural, but it can make them fussy and uncomfortable. Every child is different, but some common signs show a baby is teething.
1. Sore or Tender Gums
When baby’s gums are sore, it’s a clear sign of teething. They might look red and swollen. Babies can also get fussy when you touch their gums.
2. Excessive Drooling
Teething often makes babies drool a lot. This can wet their chin and cheeks. To help, give them a bib and gently wipe their face often.
3. Chewing on Hard Objects
Hard objects feel good on sore gums, so babies chew to find relief. They might chew on fingers, toys, or your fingers. This helps to massage their gums.
4. Increased Irritability
Teething can make babies crankier than usual. They might cry more and be harder to calm. Offering lots of comfort is key during this time.
5. Disrupted Sleep Patterns
Baby’s sleep might also be affected by teething. They could have trouble falling asleep or wake up often at night. A calming bedtime routine and a teething toy might help.
“Teething can be tough for babies and parents alike. Some babies sail through it without showing many signs. Others, however, find it really difficult. Just remember, every baby’s teething journey is different.”
To help your baby during teething, pay close attention to their needs. Knowing the signs helps you offer the right care and support. This way, you can make teething a bit easier for them.
Teething Timeline and Average Age
Teething is a change every baby goes through. When this starts and how it goes can differ. Usually, babies start teething around six months. But, some may start sooner or later. Family history and how fast a baby grows play a part in this.
The first teeth to show are usually the two bottom ones. Then, the top two make an appearance. This process keeps going until they have a full set. Most kids have all their baby teeth by the time they are three.
Here’s a simple way to figure how many teeth a baby should have. Take their age in months and subtract six. That’s the average number of teeth up to age two. This can give parents an idea of when to expect certain teeth.
Remember, each child is different. So, teething may happen earlier or later. If you worry about your child’s teething, talk to a doctor or dentist. They can give you the best advice.
Teething Process and Symptoms
Babies go through a teething process which can be soothed by understanding their symptoms. It’s important for parents to know how to care for and support their babies.
Gum Sensitivity and Swelling: A common sign of teething is gum sensitivity. The new teeth under the gums can make them swollen and very touchy. Babies might dislike eating, drinking, or usual activities because of this.
Increased Drooling: Teething makes babies drool more. Their mouths make extra saliva, leading to a lot of drool. Parents might see their baby drooling a lot and needing dry clothes and bibs often.
Chewing on Objects: Babies often want to chew on things to ease the pressure on their gums. It’s normal to see them using anything they get their hands on for this, like toys or household objects.
Fussiness and Irritability: Pain and sensitivity in the gums can make babies fussy and irritable. They might be harder to calm and cry more during teething.
Gum Splitting: Sometimes, the gums might even slightly split as teeth appear. This allows the teeth to push through the gums. Though it may worry parents, it’s usually not a problem and goes away as the teeth come in fully.
Bluish Swelling or Blisters: Babies can get bluish swelling or blisters on their gums too. This happens because of the teeth moving around under the gums. These signs should go away as the teeth completely emerge.
Parents can help their teething baby by offering safe teething toys. They can also gently massage the baby’s gums or use a cool, damp cloth for comfort. Always check with a doctor before using any kind of teething relief, especially those with chemicals or numbing agents.
“Teething is tough for babies and parents alike. By knowing the signs and using soft remedies, we can make babies feel better and more at ease.”- Dr. Emily Johnson, Pediatric Dentist
Teething Pain Relief and Remedies
When your baby is teething, they may feel a lot of discomfort. There are many ways to ease this pain. By using these teething remedies, you can make your baby’s teething phase easier for them.
1. Provide teething rings made of hard plastic: These rings are perfect for chew and put gentle pressure on the gums. They are often soothing for teething pains. Just make sure the rings are free from harmful chemicals. Also, keep an eye on your baby while they chew on them.
2. Massage the gums: A simple gum massage can work wonders. Use a clean, damp cloth or your finger. This gentle pressure gives some relief and takes your baby’s mind off the discomfort.
3. Offer a chilled teething ring or washcloth: Cooling a teething ring or cloth in the fridge can be very soothing. The cold helps numb the gums, which lowers inflammation and eases soreness. Always check the temperature first to avoid it being too cold.
4. Give your baby hard or solid foods if possible. Certain foods can help by giving a different texture to the gums. Good options include cool cucumber or carrot sticks. Keep watch while they eat to avoid choking and ensure safety.
5. Avoid freezing objects. It’s best not to put teething toys or pacifiers in the freezer. Extremely cold items can do more harm than good to little mouths.
6. Over-the-counter pain meds must be okayed by a doctor before giving to your baby. Your pediatrician can suggest the right ones and tell you the correct amount to use. This is based on your baby’s size and age.
| Teething Pain Relief and Remedies | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Teething rings made of hard plastic | Provide pressure to the gums and distract from pain |
| Massaging the gums | Temporary relief and distraction from discomfort |
| Chilled teething ring or washcloth | Numb the gums, reduce inflammation, and soothe soreness |
| Hard or solid foods (if age-appropriate) | Different texture and sensation to alleviate discomfort |
| Avoid freezing objects | Prevent potential harm to the gums |
Each baby is unique, and what helps one might not help another. Paying close attention to your baby’s reactions is key. You can adapt these remedies to best suit your baby’s needs. With your loving care, you’ll be able to ease your baby’s teething pain.
Baby Teeth Eruption Order
When baby teeth start coming through, there’s a clear sequence they follow. Knowing this sequence helps parents stay prepared and watch over their child’s teething. While when each tooth appears can vary from kid to kid, a general pattern is usually seen.
The central incisors are the first to show up. They’re the two middle teeth on the top and bottom. You’ll see them between 6 to 10 months old.
Next come the lateral incisors, right next to the central ones. They appear between 9 to 13 months.
Then, the canine teeth emerge. These are the sharp teeth next to the laterals. Expect them between 16 to 23 months.
Lastly, the first molars and second molars come in. These are the big teeth at the back. First molars show between 13 to 19 months, and second molars appear between 23 to 33 months.
While the order of baby teeth is usually the same, the timing can differ. Your child might get their teeth earlier or later than noted here.
Summary:
The usual order for baby teeth is: central incisors at 6-10 months, lateral incisors at 9-13 months, canine teeth at 16-23 months, and first molars at 13-19 months. Second molars round it out at 23-33 months.
| Teeth | Eruption Age |
|---|---|
| Central incisors | 6-10 months |
| Lateral incisors | 9-13 months |
| Canine teeth | 16-23 months |
| First molars | 13-19 months |
| Second molars | 23-33 months |
Knowing the sequence of baby tooth eruption helps parents deal with their child’s teething. If you’re ever worried or have questions about teething, talking to a pediatric dentist is the best step.
Conclusion
Teething is a key part of a baby’s growth and is completely normal. It starts at about six months and lasts until they have all 20 of their first teeth. This time can be hard because it makes babies fussy, but there are ways to help.
Parents can help by knowing what to expect during teething. It’s good to give the baby safe items to chew, like teething rings. Parents can also gently rub the baby’s gums or give them something cold to chew on. Always avoid putting things in the freezer for the baby to chew, and talk to a doctor before giving them any medicine.
Every child is different, and teething affects them in their own way. It’s important to be patient and meet your baby’s unique needs. With your love and the right information, you can help your baby get through teething with healthy teeth and as little discomfort as possible.
FAQ
When does a child stop teething?
Most children finish teething by the time they are two and a half to three years old. This is when they have all their 20 primary teeth.
What are the stages of teething in kids?
Teething starts with bottom front teeth then moves to the top front. Next come primary molars, followed by canine teeth and, finally, large molars.
What are the signs of teething?
Typical teething signs are sore gums, a lot of drooling, and chewing on hard things. Your child might also be more irritable, eat less, and have trouble sleeping.
What is the teething timeline and average age?
Kids usually start teething around six months old. They should have all their primary teeth by age three.
What are the symptoms of teething?
When teething, babies’ gums can swell and be painful. This causes them to chew more, drool a lot, and be fussy. Sometimes, you might see blisters or swollen, blue gums.
What are some teething pain relief and remedies?
For teething pain, use hard plastic teething rings or try gently massaging gums. Chilled teething rings are also good for kids to chew on. If they’re ready, solid foods can help. Talk to a doctor before giving any medicine.
What is the order of baby teeth eruption?
First, central incisors appear, followed by lateral incisors, canines, and then molars. Lower teeth come out before upper teeth, most of the time.
How does teething affect a child’s development?
Teething is a key part of child growth. It shows when they are around six months old and carries on till they have all their teeth. Parents need to know about this stage to help their child go through it.
