Teething in Babies (Daant Nikalna): Signs, Soothing Tips and What to Avoid

Around the middle of the first year, many parents notice the same things: a baby who dribbles through three bibs a day, chews on everything in reach and cries for no clear reason at night. Teething (daant nikalna) is a big step for your baby, and a hard few weeks for the family.

This guide covers when teeth usually come in, what is normal and what is not, safe ways to soothe sore gums, what to avoid, and how to start caring for those first tiny teeth.

When do babies start teething?

Most babies get their first tooth between four and twelve months, with six months being the usual. The two bottom front teeth often arrive first, followed by the top front teeth. By about three years of age, most children have all twenty milk teeth. Every baby follows their own timetable, and a late first tooth is rarely a problem if the rest of development is on track.

Signs of teething

• Heavy drooling, sometimes with a rash on the chin or chest
• Chewing on fingers, toys and anything else
• Red, swollen or tender gums, sometimes with a small bluish bump
• Fussiness, and trouble settling at night
• Rubbing the cheeks or pulling at the ears
• Refusing food for a short time
• A slight rise in temperature, but not a real fever

What is not caused by teething

Parents often blame teething for everything, and that can hide a real illness. Teething does not cause a high fever, severe diarrhoea, a cough, vomiting or a widespread rash. If your baby has any of these, check with your paediatrician. Our guide to fever in children explains the signs to watch for.

How to soothe sore gums

• Give a clean teether. Solid silicone or soft rubber teethers give the gums something firm to press on. Chilling a teether in the fridge makes it more soothing. Do not freeze it solid, which can hurt the gums.
• Rub the gums with a clean finger for a minute or two. Wash your hands first.
• Offer a cool, damp cloth for your baby to chew on.
• Wipe the drool often with a soft cloth and protect the chin with a thin layer of barrier cream such as Zinc Oxide Paste to prevent a rash.
• Give extra cuddles. Babies need comfort more than anything else when they are in discomfort.
• If your baby has started solids, offer a chilled piece of cucumber or a soft cooked carrot stick while you watch closely, so there is no risk of choking.

Teethers and soothers that parents choose

• Shield Silicone Teether is soft, easy to hold and easy to clean.
• Baby Love Teether and Shield Teether are budget-friendly options.
• Shield Toy Teether gives a toy to hold and chew.
• Pur Teether is a premium teether with a shape designed for little hands.
• Soothers such as the Shield Baby Orthodontic Soother comfort some babies, but they are not a teething remedy.

Check teethers for cracks before each use, wash them with warm soapy water, and replace them when worn. Browse our baby care and baby feeders and accessories sections for more.

What to avoid

• Amber necklaces and bracelets. They carry a risk of choking and strangulation, and there is no good evidence that they help.
• Numbing gels that contain benzocaine or lidocaine, and gels with choline salicylate (an aspirin-like ingredient), are not recommended for young babies. Ask your paediatrician before using any gel.
• Rubbing alcohol, honey or sugar on the gums. Honey is unsafe under twelve months.
• Hard biscuits or rusks unless watched closely, because pieces may break off and cause choking.
• Teething tablets and powders with unknown ingredients.
• Giving paracetamol or ibuprofen without checking the age limit and the pack directions. If your baby is very uncomfortable at night, your doctor can advise on a safe option.

Looking after the first teeth

• Once the first tooth appears, brush it twice a day with a soft baby toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste.
• Do not let your baby fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice, as this leads to early decay.
• Take your child for a first dental check by their first birthday.
• Limit sugary drinks and snacks.

When to see a doctor or dentist

• A temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or higher, or a baby who seems unwell.
• Diarrhoea, vomiting, a cough or a rash with the teething.
• Refusal to feed for more than a day.
• No teeth by around eighteen months.
• Swelling in the face, or pus around a gum.

Frequently asked questions

How long does teething pain last for each tooth?

Discomfort usually lasts a few days around the time a tooth breaks through, and then settles.

Does teething cause fever?

It may cause a slight rise in temperature, but not a true fever. A high temperature needs a doctor.

Can I use a pacifier while teething?

You can, but a teether is better for gum relief because it gives your baby something to bite on.

Is it normal for teething to disturb sleep?

Yes, for a few nights. Keep the bedtime routine steady and offer comfort.

You can order teethers, soothers and baby care items from Khasmart, with delivery across Pakistan.

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for advice from your paediatrician or dentist. It does not include dosage; always follow the directions on the pack or from your doctor.