When Will Your Baby Start Teething?

When it comes to teething, all babies are different. Some babies start teething before they are 4 months old, and some after 12 months. But most babies start teething at around 6 months.

Teething Symptoms

Baby teeth sometimes emerge with no pain or discomfort at all. At other times, you may notice:

• Their gum is sore and red where the tooth is coming through
• They have a mild temperature of less than 38C
• They have 1 flushed cheek
• They have a rash on their face
• They're rubbing their ear
• They're dribbling more than usual
• They're gnawing and chewing on things a lot
• They're crying more than usual
• They're not sleeping very well

Click here for the NHS tips on how to help your teething baby

You know your baby best. Get medical advice if they have any symptoms that are causing you concern. You can call NHS 111 or contact your GP.

Caring for your baby's new teeth

It's important to start brushing your baby's teeth with fluoride toothpaste as soon as their first milk tooth breaks through.

When your babies teeth start coming through you will need to register you baby with a dentist. You can find your local dentist here.

Tooth Brushing Tips for Babies

• You can start brushing your baby's teeth as soon as they start to come through.
• Use a baby toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.
• Don't worry if you don't manage to brush much at first. The important thing is to get your baby used to brushing their teeth as part of their daily routine.
• Use a tiny smear of toothpaste for babies and toddlers up to 3 years old. Gradually start brushing your child's teeth more thoroughly, covering all the surfaces of the teeth. Do it at least twice a day: just before bed and at another time that fits in with your routine.
• The easiest way to brush a baby's teeth is to sit them on your knee, with their head resting against your chest. With an older child, stand behind them and tilt their head backwards. Brush the teeth in small circles, covering all the surfaces. There's no need to rinse with water, as this will wash away the fluoride.

For more information and to watch a video on how to brush your babies teeth click here