When Do Babies Start Teething?
Before we answer the question “how long does teething last,” let’s define the starting point. The first tooth usually starts to come in around 6-10 months of age. However, some babies start teething as early as 3 months or as late as their first birthday.
Because of the differences in when babies start teething, it’s important to know the symptoms to look for so you can be prepared. We’ll discuss them later on in the article.
Baby Teeth Eruption Timeline
Each individual tooth has its own timeline for eruption. It varies from baby to baby, but studies have shown that the timeline for baby teeth is generally as follows:
- lower central incisors – 6-10 months;
- upper central incisors – 8-12 months;
- upper lateral incisors – 9-13 months;
- lower lateral incisors – 10-16 months;
- upper canines (cuspids) – 16-22 months;
- lower canines (cuspids) – 17-23 months;
- upper first molars – 13-19 months;
- lower first molars – 14-18 months;
- lower second molars – 23-31 months;
- upper second molars – 25-33 months.
As you can see, the first teeth to come in are typically the lower central incisors. This is followed by the upper central incisors. The rest of the teeth follow in no particular order, but second molars are always last.
So, how long does teething last in total? All 20 baby teeth should be in by the time your child is about 33 months (2.75 years) old. This means teething will last 23-27 months on average. But don’t worry, it’s not constant!
How Long Does Teething Last for Individual Teeth?
Now that we’ve answered the question “how long does teething last in general,” let’s take a look at how long each individual tooth takes to erupt. Each period of discomfort – which is just before and just after the tooth breaks through the gum – lasts around 8 days. So, if your baby is teething, you can expect it to last for about a week or two until the next tooth comes in.
The good news is that once a tooth has erupted, the discomfort is usually gone for good! So, once your baby has all 20 teeth, they should be free from teething discomfort for the rest of their life. Until then, keep the above timeline in mind to prepare yourself (and your baby) for the next eruption.
Symptoms of Teething
Now that you know the answer to “how long does teething last,” let’s take a look at some of the symptoms you can expect during this time. Keep in mind that every baby is different, so not all babies will experience all of these symptoms.
The most common symptom of teething is fussiness. This can be due to the pain of the tooth coming in, or simply because your baby is drooling more and getting irritated. Other common symptoms include:
- chewing on everything in sight;
- rubbing their gums;
- loss of appetite; and
- irritability.
If your baby is experiencing any of these symptoms, they may be teething. The best thing you can do is offer them something to chew on (like a teething toy) and be patient! It won’t last forever.
Does Teething Cause Fever?
This is a myth that’s been around for a long time, but there is no evidence to support it. In fact, most doctors will tell you that teething does not cause fever. If your baby has a fever, it’s more likely due to an ear infection or another illness.
Does Teething Cause Diarrhea?
Many mothers report that their baby has diarrhea when they’re teething, but again, there is no evidence to support this claim. The stool might be more loose than usual because your baby is producing and swallowing more saliva, but it’s not due to the teething process itself.
Does Teething Make Babies Cry?
There is no doubt that teething can be uncomfortable for babies. However, there is no evidence to suggest that it makes them cry more than usual. Most babies only cry for a few minutes at a time when they’re teething. If your child is crying non-stop, it’s more likely due to something else, like hunger or fatigue.
Are the Teething Symptoms the Same for All Babies?
As we mentioned before, every baby is different, so the symptoms of teething will vary from child to child. Some babies experience very mild symptoms, while others can be quite uncomfortable. If your baby seems to be in a lot of pain, talk to your doctor about how you can help them feel better.
How to Soothe Your Baby’s Teething Pain?
There are a few things you can do to help soothe your baby’s teething pain. The most important thing is to be patient and understanding. Your baby is going through a lot of changes, and they need your love and support. You know the answer to “how long does teething last” is pretty long, so try to be patient!
In addition to patience, there are a few things you can do to help your baby feel better. These include:
- offering them something to chew on;
- massaging their gums with your finger or with wet gauze;
- using a teething ring or toy;
- putting a cold, wet washcloth on their gums;
- giving them a pacifier; and
- giving them over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen made specifically for children.
If you’re not sure how to help your baby, talk to your doctor. They will be able to give you specific advice based on your child’s individual needs.
Which Remedies to Avoid?
There are a few teething remedies that you should avoid. These include homeopathic teething tablets, medication containing benzocaine or lidocaine, and teething necklaces, bracelets or anklets.
These remedies have not been proven to be effective, and they can actually be dangerous. Homeopathic teething tablets have not been evaluated by the FDA, and they may contain belladonna, a toxic substance. Medication containing benzocaine or lidocaine is unsafe for babies, and teething necklaces, bracelets or anklets can be a choking hazard.
If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to help your baby through the teething process, talk to your doctor. In the meantime, stick to the basics: offer them something safe to chew on, be patient and understanding, and give them lots of love!
When in Doubt, Ask a Dentist
If you’re ever unsure about how to care for your child’s new teeth, the best thing to do is ask a dentist. Teething is a natural process that all babies go through, but it can be tough for parents to watch their little ones suffer. A dentist can give you peace of mind and let you know how to best care for your child’s teeth during this important milestone.
So, how long does teething last? Usually it starts at 6-10 months of age and ends around 33 months, but every baby is different.
Similar Posts:
