09/02/2026
Tiny Teeth, Big Feelings: Understanding Teething in Babies and Toddlers
One day your happy baby is suddenly chewing on everything, drooling nonstop, and waking more often at night, and you start wondering, "Could it be teething?" Teething can look different from child to child, but common signs include increased drooling, chewing on fingers or toys, swollen or tender gums, fussiness, and a desire to bite or gnaw on things. Some babies may also have changes in sleep or appetite as their gums become uncomfortable, although not every symptom is caused by teething. The first teeth most often appear around 6 months, with the lower central incisors usually arriving first, followed by the upper central incisors around 8–12 months. Around 9–16 months, many babies begin getting their lateral incisors, followed by the first molars around 13–19 months.
Next come the canine teeth, often between 16–23 months, and the second molars commonly arrive between 23–33 months. By around age 3, most children have their full set of 20 primary teeth, although there is plenty of normal variation in timing. You can support your little one with a clean, cool washcloth to chew on, a chilled teething ring, gentle gum massage, and plenty of cuddles and reassurance. Avoid frozen-solid teething objects or anything that could become a choking hazard, and never use teething necklaces or other products that pose a strangulation risk. Remember that teething can cause discomfort, but a high fever, significant diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or a child who seems seriously unwell should not simply be blamed on teething and deserves medical attention. Those tiny teeth may arrive one at a time, but each new smile marks another little step in your child's incredible journey of growth and development.
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