Proven to help: Chilled (not frozen) teething rings or clean damp flannel, gentle gum massage with a clean finger, baby paracetamol or ibuprofen (from 3 months) for significant discomfort, and extra cuddles and comfort.
Avoid: Teething gels containing lidocaine (can cause breathing problems in babies), amber teething beads (strangulation and choking risk), frozen teethers (too cold — can damage gums), and anything not designed for babies. The NHS recommends sugar-free teething gels rather than those containing anaesthetics.
First dentist appointment: The NHS recommends taking your baby as soon as the first tooth appears — this gets them used to the environment and allows early checks. NHS dental care is free for children under 18.
FAQs
Teething may cause a very slight temperature rise (below 38°C) due to inflammation, but it does NOT cause true fever (38°C or above). A high fever in a teething baby has another cause — usually viral illness — and should be assessed by your GP. Never attribute a significant fever to teething and leave it uninvestigated.
The typical range for first teeth is very wide — 4–15 months is considered normal. Some babies get teeth very early; others take until 15 months or even later. If your child has no teeth by 18 months, mention it to your health visitor or dentist. Delayed teething is rarely significant but can occasionally indicate a nutritional issue or other condition worth checking.
Yes — as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a small soft-bristled baby toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste (1,000ppm fluoride — check the label). Brush twice a day, especially before bed. Don't rinse after brushing — let the fluoride sit on the teeth. The NHS provides free dental care for all children.