Teething and dental care

Some babies are born with teeth, while others can wait months for their first teeth to appear.

While it’s true that some babies sail through teething without a care in the world, the majority do suffer from painful gums, as well as diarrhea and tummy upsets caused by the extra acidity in their mouth during teething.

Signs of teething include general crankiness, red cheeks and excessive drooling. You may in some cases be able to feel the ridge of the tooth just below the gum, and the gum may be red and swollen. Usually, the first teeth to emerge are the bottom front teeth, then followed by the top front teeth, upper and lower side teeth, upper and lower molars, followed by the upper and lower canines, and the second molars last of all.

Different types of teething aids are available, from the simple plastic teething rings to teethers filled with gel, which can be cooled in the refrigerator to ease painful gums. Numbing gels which you rub on to babies’ gums can also help ease the pain – ask your pharmacist for advice – and you may also be able to get homeopathic granules or powders.

Check out gurgle’s chat forum to find out what other moms have to say about teething, and watch our videos with tips on easing the pain of teething and how to clean your baby's teeth.

The information on this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

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Last Modified: 14/07/2008

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