Teething in Infants and Toddlers — Denver, CO
Teething is one of the first major milestones in your baby’s dental development. At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to help your family navigate this stage with clarity and confidence. Dr. Kojo Danso and our team provide guidance for parents on what to expect, how to help your baby through the discomfort, and when it’s time to schedule their first dental visit.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Teething?
Teething is the process by which an infant’s first teeth — commonly called baby teeth or primary teeth — push through the gums and become visible in the mouth. This is a completely natural and necessary milestone, but it can be an uncomfortable process for both baby and parent.
Most babies begin teething around six months of age, though the timing varies considerably from child to child. Some babies start as early as three months, while others don’t get their first tooth until close to their first birthday. The timing is largely genetic, so if you teethed early or late as a baby, your child may follow a similar pattern. There are typically 20 primary teeth in total, and the full set is usually in place by the time a child is about two to three years old.
Signs and Symptoms of Teething
Every child experiences teething differently — some sail through it with minimal fuss, while others find it quite uncomfortable. Common signs that your baby may be teething include:
Increased drooling, which is very common and normal. You may want to have a small cloth on hand to keep the chin and chest dry, as persistent moisture can cause skin irritation. Increased chewing or gnawing on hands, fingers, toys, or anything within reach — this is your baby’s natural way of applying counter-pressure to the gums. Fussiness or irritability, especially in the days just before and after a tooth breaks through. Swollen, red, or tender-looking gums in the area where a tooth is emerging. Slight changes in sleeping or feeding patterns, as discomfort may make your baby temporarily less settled.
It is important to note that teething does not cause fever, diarrhea, or respiratory symptoms. If your baby develops a significant fever or other illness symptoms during teething, those symptoms should be evaluated separately by your pediatrician — they are not caused by teething itself.
How to Soothe a Teething Baby
There are several safe and effective approaches to helping your baby through teething discomfort:
Gentle gum massage: Using a clean finger, gently rub your baby’s gums. The counter-pressure can provide real relief and most babies find it soothing.
Teething toys: Firm rubber teething rings or toys give your baby something safe to chew on and help relieve pressure in the gums. Make sure teething toys are age-appropriate and free of BPA or other harmful materials.
Chilled (not frozen) items: A clean, slightly chilled washcloth or a refrigerated (not frozen) teething toy can help numb the gums and reduce inflammation. Frozen items are too hard and can actually damage sensitive gum tissue.
What to avoid: Do not use teething gels containing benzocaine (a local anesthetic) on infants — the FDA has warned against this due to safety concerns. Amber teething necklaces are also not recommended, as they pose a choking and strangulation risk. If you’re unsure about any product marketed for teething relief, ask our team or your pediatrician.
When to Schedule Your Baby’s First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit within six months of their first tooth erupting, or by their first birthday — whichever comes first. This early first visit establishes a dental home for your child and gives us the opportunity to monitor their oral development, provide a professional assessment, and offer personalized guidance on at-home care.
Starting dental visits early — even before teething is complete — helps your child build a positive association with dental care. The earlier we meet your child, the more smoothly we can support their long-term oral health journey.
Caring for Baby Teeth Once They Arrive
As soon as your baby’s first tooth comes in, it’s time to start cleaning it. Use a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste — no larger than a grain of rice — to gently brush the tooth twice daily. This establishes healthy habits early and removes plaque from the very first tooth.
As more teeth come in, continue brushing all surfaces and begin flossing as soon as two teeth touch. We also recommend fluoride treatments starting at the first dental visit to help strengthen developing enamel. And as your child grows into toddlerhood, cavity prevention guidance — including diet, sippy cup use, and bedtime routines — becomes increasingly important.
Contact Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry in Denver, CO, at (303) 757-8844 to schedule your baby’s first dental visit or to ask any questions about teething or infant oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teething
When do babies start teething?
Most babies begin teething around six months of age, but it can start as early as three months or as late as twelve months. The timing is largely hereditary. The full set of 20 primary teeth is typically in place by around age two to three.
Is it normal for teething to be so uncomfortable?
Some degree of discomfort during teething is normal. The pressure of a tooth pushing through gum tissue causes irritation. Most babies experience some fussiness and tenderness, but severe distress is not typical. If your baby seems to be in significant pain, talk to your pediatrician or contact our office at (303) 757-8844.
Does teething cause fever?
No. Teething does not cause fever, diarrhea, or respiratory illness. If your baby has these symptoms during teething, they should be evaluated by a pediatrician separately. A slightly elevated temperature that stays under 100.4°F may be associated with teething, but true fever is not.
What should I do if my baby’s gums look very swollen or bruised?
Some swelling and redness are completely normal as teeth push through. Occasionally a bluish bruise-like area may appear over a tooth that is coming in — this is called an eruption cyst and typically resolves on its own. If you’re concerned, contact our office and we’ll advise you.
Are teething gels safe for babies?
No. The FDA has warned against using teething gels that contain benzocaine (a local anesthetic) in infants and toddlers. These products can cause rare but serious side effects. We recommend safer alternatives such as gentle gum massage and chilled teething toys.
When should I schedule my baby’s first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends your child’s first dental visit within six months of their first tooth appearing, or by their first birthday. Don’t wait until you think there might be a problem — early visits are about establishing care and preventing problems.
How do I clean my baby’s teeth once they come in?
Use a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (grain-of-rice size) twice daily from the very first tooth. As more teeth come in, be sure to brush all tooth surfaces. Start flossing as soon as two adjacent teeth touch. Ask our team for a demonstration at your first visit.