Short answer: Most babies start teething around six months, though some start before four months and some after a year. Teething can cause sore, red gums, dribbling, chewing on things, flushed cheeks and fussiness, but some teeth come through with few or no symptoms. There's no evidence teething causes diarrhoea, and it shouldn't be blamed for a high temperature or illness. Chilled (not frozen) teething rings, firm gum rubbing and, if needed, paracetamol (from 2 months) or ibuprofen (from 3 months) can help. Avoid amber necklaces and unlicensed homeopathic products, and start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears.
At some point in the first year, everything becomes “teething”. Bad night? Teething. Grumpy? Teething. Runny poo? Teething too. It's one of the most-used explanations of babyhood — and it isn't always the right one.
When do teeth come through?
Most babies get their first tooth at around six months, often one of the bottom front teeth. But some start before four months, some after twelve months, and a few are born with a tooth. All of this is normal.
Signs of teething
- sore, red gums where the tooth is coming through;
- dribbling more than usual, sometimes with a rash on the chin;
- gnawing and chewing on fingers and toys;
- one flushed cheek;
- being more fretful than usual, and sometimes not sleeping well.
Some teeth arrive with no discomfort at all, or with mild symptoms that last only a few days.
What teething doesn't explain
The NHS notes there's no evidence that teething causes symptoms such as diarrhoea. If your baby has a high temperature, diarrhoea, vomiting, a cough or a rash, or seems unwell, don't put it down to teeth — get advice. A baby under three months with a temperature of 38 °C or higher always needs urgent medical advice.
“It's probably just teeth” is the phrase that most often delays a real diagnosis. Take fever and illness seriously.
What eases sore gums
Teething rings
Give your baby something firm to chew on. Some teething rings can be cooled in the fridge first, which may soothe the gums — but never put one in the freezer, as a frozen ring can damage the gums.
Gentle pressure
Rubbing the gum with a clean finger can help. Older babies who've started solids may like chewing on cool, soft finger foods such as cucumber — always stay with them because of choking risks.
Protect the skin
Gently wipe dribble from your baby's face to help prevent a rash.
Pain relief if needed
Sugar-free paracetamol can be given from 2 months and ibuprofen from 3 months, at the right dose for your baby's age. Check the packaging, or ask a pharmacist.
What to avoid
- Teething gels: there's a lack of evidence they work. The NHS suggests trying teething rings or sugar-free painkillers first. If you use a gel, choose one specifically for young children from a pharmacy — general oral pain gels aren't suitable.
- Homeopathic and unlicensed products: not recommended; some unlicensed products sold online have been linked to serious side effects.
- Amber or teething necklaces: they pose a choking and strangulation risk.
- Sugary foods or drinks to soothe teething, which can cause tooth decay.
Looking after first teeth
- Start brushing as soon as the first tooth comes through, twice a day: before bed and at another time.
- Use a baby toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste for under-threes, and a pea-sized amount for 3- to 6-year-olds.
- Take your baby to the dentist early, so they get used to it. In the UK, NHS dental treatment for children is free.
Baby teeth fall out eventually, but until then they do real work. Decay in them hurts just as much.
When to get help
Contact your GP or NHS 111 (or your local equivalent) if your baby has symptoms that worry you, a high temperature, is unusually sleepy or floppy, isn't feeding, or has fewer wet nappies. For signs of serious illness, call 999 (UK), 911 (US) or 112 (EU).
Related reading
Month by month: The First Year (PDF, English) guides you through your baby's first twelve months.
Sources
- NHS — Baby teething symptoms.
- NHS — Tips for helping your teething baby.
- NHS — Looking after your baby's teeth.
Written by the Bloom Guides editorial team. Last updated: 20 October 2026. General information only — not a substitute for advice from your health visitor, pharmacist or doctor.