Understanding Baby Teething
Baby teething can be a challenging time for both parents and babies, making teething advice essential in finding the best way to soothe discomfort. Every baby experiences teething differently, and the most effective remedies often involve a combination of approaches that work best for you and your child.
Bickiepegs Teething Biscuits, being a food-based teether, complement baby-led weaning and, in our opinion, offer an advantage over plastic or non-food-based teethers. Designed to access all teeth, including the back molars, Bickiepegs provide a natural chewing experience and practice for chewing skills, essential for jaw and overall oral development. Additionally, the Bickiepegs Finger Toothbrush and Gum Massager can help soothe sore gums while gently introducing oral care for first teeth.
Baby Teething Timeline
-
At Birth – Teeth begin forming in the gums as early as two months into pregnancy, meaning all “milk” teeth are present at birth. Rarely, some babies are born with teeth.
-
3 Months – Teething symptoms may start, including flushed cheeks, excessive dribbling, chewing on fingers or objects, and general irritability.
-
6-7 Months – The first teeth, usually the top and bottom incisors, start to emerge.
-
12 Months – The first molars appear. On average, infants may have around six teeth by this stage.
-
18 Months – Canines (cuspid teeth) start to come through.
-
2-3 Years – The second molars emerge, completing the first set of 20 primary teeth.
Check out our teething chart for a visual guide to teething milestones.
While the age at which teeth appear varies from child to child, the importance of oral care remains the same.
Common Symptoms of Teething
Many babies experience discomfort when teeth begin to ‘cut’ through the gums. Symptoms can include:
✔ Flushed cheeks, especially on the affected side
✔ Excessive dribbling
✔ Chewing on fingers, toys, or anything within reach
✔ Sore, red gums
✔ Increased irritability
⚠ Important: If your baby has bleeding gums, diarrhoea, or other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.
How to Soothe Teething Discomfort
✔ Massage sore gums with a finger toothbrush or gum massager.
✔ Offer cold fruit slices such as apple to provide relief.
✔ Provide a firm teething aid like a hard teething biscuit, which encourages chewing and supports natural jaw development, whilst relieving the discomfort from emerging teeth.
✔ Apply a mild teething gel to the affected area for cooling relief.
✔ Avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay and encourage a preference for sweet tastes.
⚠ Safety Tip: Always supervise your child while they are chewing on food or teething aids.
Caring for First Teeth
✔ Introduce an open cup early – The Doidy Cup promotes healthy drinking habits by encouraging sipping rather than sucking.
✔ Limit sugary drinks – The British Dental Health Foundation recommends offering only water or milk, as fruit juice acids can erode baby teeth.
✔ Start brushing as soon as teeth appear – Use a finger toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to keep new teeth clean.
✔ Stop using bottles and spouted cups by 12 months – Prolonged bottle use can lead to early tooth decay (dental caries).
✔ Schedule an early dental visit – The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry recommends a Dental Check by 1 Year, helping babies get used to dental visits and ensuring early intervention if needed.
By following these teething tips and practicing good oral hygiene from the start, you can ease your baby’s teething discomfort while laying the foundation for lifelong healthy teeth and gums.
