Teething usually causes gum discomfort for infants, and we recommend gentle measures such as chilled teethers, careful gum massage, and age appropriate over the counter pain relievers when needed under pediatric guidance. If your baby has high fever, persistent refusal to feed, or a rash, seek medical advice and schedule an evaluation with a pediatric dentist or pediatrician.
How teething usually shows up and how long it lasts
Teething is the process of primary teeth moving through the gums. Most babies get their first tooth between four and twelve months, but timing varies. Common signs include increased drooling, chewing on objects, mild irritability, sleep changes, and red, swollen gums around emerging teeth.
Teething discomfort tends to come in short episodes around each tooth, not as a continuous illness. If your child has prolonged fever, severe vomiting, diarrhea, or other unusual symptoms, these are not normal teething signs and deserve prompt medical attention.
Safe ways we recommend to soothe a teething baby
We focus on low risk, evidence informed methods you can use at home and that we support during office visits.
- Chilled, not frozen, teethers. Offer a clean silicone or rubber teether cooled in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes. Cold numbs the gum slightly and reduces swelling.
- Gum massage. Using a clean finger, gently rub the baby s gums in circular motions to relieve pressure. Use a dry or slightly damp finger; do not use needles or sharp objects.
- Soft chewable toys. Supervised soft toys made for teething give something safe to bite. Inspect toys for small parts and tears before every use.
- Pain medicine when appropriate. If discomfort prevents sleep or feeding, pediatric acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Follow dosing guidance from your child s pediatrician and use the correct product for your child s age and weight.
- Distraction and comfort. Extra cuddling, rhythmic motion, or a quiet feeding can calm a fussy infant during a teething episode.
Pro tip: Keep a small cooler pack with designated teethers in the refrigerator so you always have chilled options. Do not freeze teethers solid, and never give frozen food or bottles to soothe gums because extreme cold can damage tissues.
Products and practices to avoid
Certain items and remedies are unsafe or unhelpful. We caution caregivers against these.
- Avoid topical benzocaine products for infants, which have been linked to serious side effects and are not recommended by major child health organizations.
- Do not use teething necklaces, bracelets, or strings. They pose a strangulation and choking risk.
- Avoid rubbing or applying alcohol, essential oils, or unapproved medications to the gums.
Watch out: If your baby has a fever above what the pediatrician considers normal, persistent diarrhea or vomiting, or a marked decrease in feeding or alertness, those symptoms are not caused by teething alone and you should seek medical evaluation.
When to see a pediatric dentist or pediatrician
We encourage an early dental evaluation for infants, especially if you notice anything that seems unusual. Schedule an appointment if your child has persistent signs that interfere with feeding or sleep, visible tooth abnormalities, or injuries to the mouth.
We follow guidance from pediatric dental authorities on infant oral health, and we also coordinate with your child s pediatrician when medical symptoms appear. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry outlines infant oral health recommendations that we use when caring for young patients.
Learn more about infant oral health on our related topic page Infant oral health, and if it s time for a check of emerging teeth, see our Pediatric Dentistry services.
How we approach teething in our Bowery area practice
At Dr. Jerry Ashrafi, DMD, MA, PLLC, Pediatric Dentist we combine clinical experience with gentle, minimally invasive care for infants and toddlers. During an infant visit we review home soothing strategies, check tooth eruption and gum health, and advise on feeding, pacifier use, and safe teething products.
Our team emphasizes prevention and caregiver education so families can handle routine teething episodes with confidence. If a dental checkup or cleaning is appropriate, we perform it in a way that keeps visits calm and positive for young patients.
We serve families across New York and maintain collaborative relationships with pediatricians and daycares to support each child s oral health. To find the office that serves your neighborhood, see our locations page.
At home checklist for teething relief
What to have on hand
- Several clean silicone or rubber teethers kept chilled, not frozen.
- A soft, supervised chewable toy for brief supervised use.
- Clean hands for gentle gum massage.
- Age appropriate pain medicine only on pediatrician advice.
- Scheduled early dental visit on our Pediatric Dentistry page if you have concerns about tooth eruption or dental health.
Key takeaway
Teething is usually temporary and manageable with chilled teethers, gentle gum massage, and pediatric guidance on medicine. Watch for unusual symptoms, and use a pediatric dental visit when signs go beyond ordinary discomfort. We support Bowery families with infant friendly dental care and clear advice on safe teething practices.
Frequently asked questions
At what age do babies usually start teething?
Most babies begin teething between four and twelve months, but some get their first tooth earlier or later. Timing varies across children and families.
Can teething cause fever?
Mild temperature changes can occur with teething, but a true fever is not a normal teething sign. If your child has a measured fever, contact your pediatrician for evaluation.
Are teething gels safe for infants?
Topical benzocaine gels are not recommended for infants because of safety concerns. Discuss safe pain options with your pediatrician or our team if your child needs relief.
How can a pediatric dentist help with teething?
We check oral development, rule out dental issues, and advise on safe soothing methods. For babies with early dental concerns, we provide preventive care and parent education to reduce future problems.
When should I bring my baby in for a first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first dental visit by the first tooth or by the child s first birthday. You can read more on our topic page about the first dental visit.
Learn more and find our office
Read parent guidance and related topics on our site, and check our Google Business Profile to see reviews and get directions to the office.