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Baby teething: signs, soothing tips and tooth brushing
Teething is when your baby's first teeth push through the gums. It is a normal part of development, but it comes with a lot of myths. Here is what is typical, what is not, and how to start looking after those first teeth.
When do babies get their first tooth?
The first tooth often appears at around 6 months, usually one of the lower front teeth. The range is wide: some babies are born with a tooth or get one at 3 to 4 months, while others do not get any until after their first birthday. This is usually normal.
Most children have a full set of 20 baby teeth by about 2.5 to 3 years. The order and timing often run in families.
Common signs of teething
Typical signs include more drooling, chewing on fingers and toys, swollen or tender gums, being more irritable than usual and sometimes slightly disturbed sleep or less interest in feeding. A flushed cheek or rubbing the ear can also occur.
These signs usually come and go around the time a tooth is moving. Note that drooling and chewing also start around 3 to 4 months for developmental reasons, long before most teeth appear.
What teething does not cause
Teething does not cause a high fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, a bad cough or a rash, although a slightly raised temperature is sometimes mentioned. If your baby has a real fever or seems unwell, do not put it down to teething. Look for another cause and read our baby fever guide.
Because the age of teething overlaps with the time babies start to meet new germs, illnesses are easy to blame on teeth by mistake.
How to soothe sore gums
Offer a clean, cool (not frozen) teething ring or a clean damp cloth to chew on, and gently rub the gums with a clean finger. Extra cuddles help too. Wipe drool from the chin to prevent skin irritation, using a little barrier cream if needed.
Avoid teething necklaces and bracelets because of the risk of choking and strangulation. Ask a pharmacist or health nurse before using any gels or medicines, and never put anything with alcohol on the gums.
Start tooth brushing with the first tooth
Norwegian health authorities advise starting to brush as soon as the first tooth appears, twice a day, with fluoride toothpaste. Use a very small amount, about a smear for young children, and a soft brush. The dentist or health clinic can tell you the right fluoride strength and amount for your child's age.
Brush last thing at night, and let your child spit rather than rinse. In Norway, the dental service (tannhelsetjenesten) offers free check-ups for children, and your health clinic can answer questions. Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of anything other than water once teeth have come through.
Frequently asked questions
At what age do babies start teething?
The first tooth most often appears at around 6 months, but anywhere from about 3 months to over 12 months can be normal.
Does teething cause fever?
Teething does not cause a high fever. If your baby has a temperature of 38.0 or above, look for another cause, and contact a doctor if your baby is under 3 months or seems unwell.
When should I start brushing my baby's teeth?
As soon as the first tooth comes through. Brush twice a day with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste, as advised in Norway.
What can I give my teething baby?
A clean cool teething ring, a damp cloth, gum massage and comfort. Avoid teething necklaces, and ask a pharmacist before using any medicine or gel.
Check the facts: rules, recommendations and products change. Always verify with the manufacturer, official sources such as NAV, Helsedirektoratet and Arbeidstilsynet, and other relevant health authorities before you act.