How Long Does Teething Last?

Teething is a significant milestone in your baby’s growth, signaling their transition to eating solid foods and developing speech skills. While exciting, it often comes with challenges like sleepless nights, crankiness, and a lot of drooling. Every baby experiences teething differently, but understanding the process, timeline, and effective remedies can help you navigate this stage with confidence.

In this guide, we’ll cover the duration of teething, its stages, signs to watch for, and practical tips for soothing your baby’s discomfort. We’ll also explain when to seek medical advice and answer frequently asked questions to ease your concerns.

What Is Teething?

Teething is the process of a baby’s teeth breaking through the gums. Typically starting around 6 months of age, this milestone varies widely among babies. Some may begin as early as 3 months, while others might not show signs until after their first birthday.

Teething continues in phases until your child has a full set of 20 baby teeth, usually by 2 to 3 years of age. While it’s a natural part of development, the process can cause discomfort and disrupt daily routines.

Signs and Symptoms of Teething

Recognizing teething symptoms can help you differentiate normal teething behavior from other health concerns. Common signs include:

  • Drooling: Excess saliva often leads to a rash around the mouth and chin.
  • Chewing: Babies tend to gnaw on toys, fingers, or anything they can grasp to soothe their gums.
  • Irritability: Fussiness often peaks as the tooth pushes through the gums.
  • Gum Sensitivity: Swollen, tender, or red gums are typical.
  • Sleep Disruption: Your baby may wake more frequently due to discomfort.
  • Reduced Appetite: Gum pain might make chewing uncomfortable, leading to temporary changes in eating habits.

When Symptoms Indicate Something Else

High fever, persistent diarrhea, or vomiting are not normal teething symptoms. If your baby exhibits these, consult a healthcare professional to rule out other issues.

Stages of Teething

Teething occurs gradually over several stages. Here’s what to expect:

First Teeth (6–12 Months)

  • Lower Central Incisors: The bottom front teeth often appear first, between 6 and 10 months.
  • Upper Central Incisors: The top front teeth usually emerge around 8 to 12 months.

Subsequent Teeth (12–24 Months)

  • Lateral Incisors: These are next, emerging between 9 and 16 months.
  • First Molars: Larger teeth, appearing between 13 and 19 months, may cause more significant discomfort.
  • Canines (Cuspids): The sharp, pointy teeth come in around 16 to 23 months.

Second Molars (24–36 Months)

  • The back molars are the last to arrive, completing the set between 23 and 33 months.

By age 3, most children have a full set of primary teeth, ready to support solid food consumption and early speech development.

So, how long does teething last?

Teething spans over two years, but it’s not a continuous process. Babies often experience teething in phases, with breaks in between.

  • Initial Phase (6–12 Months): The first teeth erupt, causing noticeable discomfort.
  • Ongoing Phases (12–24 Months): Teeth emerge every few months, with intervals of relief.
  • Final Phase (24–36 Months): The second molars come in, marking the end of the teething process.

Each tooth may take several days to a week to fully emerge, with symptoms intensifying just before and during eruption.

Managing Teething Discomfort

Caring for a teething baby requires patience and effective strategies. Here are tried-and-true methods to ease discomfort:

At-Home Remedies

  • Teething Rings: Refrigerate a teething ring for a soothing, numbing effect on gums.
  • Cold Washcloth: A chilled, damp washcloth provides relief and is easy to hold.
  • Gentle Gum Massage: Use a clean finger to rub your baby’s gums in circular motions.

Over-the-Counter Solutions

  • Teething Gels: Only use gels specifically approved for infants, and consult your pediatrician first to ensure safety.
  • Infant Pain Relievers: Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help but should be used under medical supervision.

Things to Avoid

  • Teething Necklaces: Avoid these due to choking and strangulation risks.
  • Unsafe Remedies: Products containing alcohol or unapproved topical medications can harm your baby.

Supporting Your Baby Through Teething

Consistency and comfort are key during this challenging time. Here are additional tips to keep your baby at ease:

  1. Stick to a Routine: Predictable schedules can provide a sense of security even during disruptions.
  2. Offer Distractions: Playtime, cuddles, and soothing music can help shift your baby’s focus from discomfort.
  3. Stay Calm: Babies pick up on parental stress. Keeping a calm demeanor can help soothe them.

When to Consult a Pediatrician

While most teething issues resolve on their own, certain symptoms may require medical attention. Contact your pediatrician if your baby experiences:

  • Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
  • Persistent diarrhea or vomiting
  • Difficulty eating or drinking
  • Severe irritability lasting several days

These could indicate an underlying condition unrelated to teething.

FAQs About Teething Duration

How long does each tooth take to erupt?

Each tooth typically takes a few days to fully emerge, although symptoms may persist before and after.

Can teething affect sleep?

Yes, discomfort often disrupts sleep, especially during the eruption of larger teeth like molars.

Does teething cause fever or illness?

Teething may slightly raise body temperature but should not cause a fever above 100.4°F. High fever or other symptoms warrant a pediatrician’s evaluation.

How can I support my baby’s appetite during teething?

Offer chilled foods like purees, yogurt, or soft fruits to reduce gum pain while ensuring adequate nutrition.

Oral Hygiene During Teething

Teething is an excellent time to introduce healthy oral hygiene habits. Start by cleaning your baby’s teeth with a soft, damp cloth or baby toothbrush. Avoid toothpaste until your child is old enough to spit it out (usually around 2 years old). Regular cleaning prevents plaque buildup and establishes a foundation for lifelong dental health.

Teething and Developmental Milestones

Teething often coincides with other developmental milestones. Understanding these connections can help you anticipate your baby’s needs:

  • Solid Foods: As teeth emerge, your baby can handle more textures, advancing their eating habits.
  • Speech Development: Teeth play a critical role in forming sounds, supporting language skills.
  • Fine Motor Skills: Holding teething toys or feeding themselves fosters dexterity and coordination.

Conclusion

Teething is a natural yet challenging phase in your baby’s development. While it can last over two years, understanding the timeline, managing symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical advice can make this milestone more manageable. Most importantly, remember that teething is a temporary phase, and your baby will soon have a beautiful set of teeth that contribute to their smile, diet, and speech.

For expert advice and personalized care, Dr. Danielle Leung at Entirely Kids Pediatrics is here to support you. Whether you have teething concerns or other pediatric needs, we are dedicated to your child’s health and happiness. Call us today at 469-425-3600 to schedule an appointment.