Disclaimer
The information below is provided as a general guide only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental care. Every patient’s situation is unique. If you are experiencing ongoing issues or have specific concerns, please schedule an appointment with your dentist for personalised advice and treatment.
Baby teeth and teething
Teething is a completely natural part of your baby’s development.
At Armagh Dental Clinic, we’re here to reassure and guide you through this stage.
When do babies start teething?
All babies are different.
- Some babies begin teething as early as 4–5 months
- The average age for the first tooth is around 6 months
- Some babies may start later — this is usually perfectly normal
Occasionally, babies may even be born with a tooth (this is rare).
Most children will have all 20 baby (milk) teeth by around 3 years of age.
Some babies show very little discomfort when teething. Others may experience:
- Red, sore or swollen gums
- Increased dribbling
- Chewing or gnawing on objects
- Flushed cheeks
- Mild temperature (usually below 38°C)
- Rubbing their ear
- A mild facial rash (often from dribbling)
- Disturbed sleep
- Being more fretful than usual
- Mild tummy upset
If your baby has a temperature above 38°C, diarrhoea, or seems particularly unwell, this is unlikely to be due to teething alone and you should seek medical advice.
Teeth usually appear in a predictable pattern, although timing can vary.
Typical Eruption Guide:
- Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth): 5–7 months
- Upper central incisors (top front teeth): 6–8 months
- Upper lateral incisors: 9–11 months
- Lower lateral incisors: 10–12 months
- First molars (back teeth): 12–16 months
- Canines (pointed teeth): 16–20 months
- Second molars (very back teeth): 20–30 months
By around age three, most children will have a full set of 20 baby teeth.
Tips to help a teething baby
There are several safe and effective ways to ease discomfort.
Teething rings
Specially designed teething rings are safe for babies to chew chilled (not frozen) teething rings can help reduce inflammation
Cool comfort
Coolness helps soothe sore gums. A clean, damp face cloth cooled in the fridge, cold fruit such as melon (cut into large sticks for older babies), chilled raw vegetables (if age-appropriate and supervised).
Pain relief
If your baby seems uncomfortable: Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used (age and weight appropriate dosing only), always follow the instructions on the packaging or seek advice from your pharmacist. Choose sugar-free versions of medicines.
Teething gels are also available from pharmacies. Apply a small amount to the affected area, following the manufacturer’s guidance.
Comfort & distraction
- Sometimes simple reassurance works best with extra cuddles
- Gentle gum massage (with clean hands)
- Distracting your baby with play
Reassurance for parents
Teething is temporary, even though it may not feel like it at the time.
Most symptoms are mild and manageable. If you are ever unsure whether symptoms are related to teething, or you have concerns about your baby’s teeth, our team at Armagh Dental Clinic is always happy to advise.
At Armagh Dental Clinic, we are here to support your family at every stage — from pregnancy to teenage years and beyond.
