When does teething start in babies?

Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months, though it can start earlier or later and still be perfectly normal. The lower front teeth (central incisors) usually appear first. Early signs include increased chewing, drooling, and mild fussiness before a tooth becomes visible.

How can I comfort my baby during teething?

Gentle gum massage with a clean finger, cool (not frozen) teething rings, and extra cuddles are the most effective approaches. A teething gel with gentle ingredients like hydroxyapatite, aloe vera, and chamomile can also be part of a daily comfort routine. Avoid numbing agents such as benzocaine or lidocaine.

When should I start brushing my baby's teeth?

Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush with a smear of baby-appropriate toothpaste. Before teeth arrive, wiping gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeds helps your baby get used to a daily oral care routine.

Does teething affect sleep?

Teething can temporarily disrupt sleep, particularly in the days just before a tooth breaks through the gum. This is usually short-lived. Maintaining consistent bedtime routines and offering extra comfort during these periods helps most families manage the disruption without lasting sleep changes.

Surviving the Teething Journey: A Parent’s Guide to Happier Gums and Calmer Nights

October 24, 2025

By Dr Jack Brazel BChD · Reviewed by Dr John Krezel, Specialist Prosthodontist

Teething is one of those milestones every parent hears about - but nothing truly prepares you for the reality. The drool, the red cheeks, the endless gnawing on toys (and sometimes your fingers), and of course, the midnight wake-ups that leave the whole household a little frayed around the edges.

At MamaSmiles, we believe teething doesn’t have to feel like a battle. With the right knowledge, gentle care, and daily routines, you can support your baby’s gums while protecting those very first teeth - and find some peace of mind along the way.

When Does Teething Start?

Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months, but every child is unique. Some little ones surprise parents with their first tooth at 3 months, while others don’t get one until after their first birthday.

The timing isn’t as important as recognising the signs:

More chewing and biting
Drooling (sometimes buckets!)
Irritability or disrupted sleep
Swollen or red gums

These symptoms can feel worrying, but they’re part of a normal process - your baby’s gums preparing to welcome tiny pearly whites.

Comforting Your Baby (and Yourself)

Teething doesn’t have to mean endless tears. Here are simple, parent-tested ways to help:

Cool Relief: A clean, chilled (not frozen) teething toy or a damp washcloth can soothe inflamed gums. The coolness offers gentle comfort and gives your baby something safe to chew on.
Gentle Gum Massage: Wash your hands and softly rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger. The pressure can ease discomfort while strengthening your bond.
Natural Soothing Options: Some parents turn to natural gels and remedies. If you choose this route, always ensure the product is safe, sugar-free, and designed specifically for babies. (That’s why we created our MamaSmiles Teething Gel - dentist-formulated, natural, and designed for everyday use before, during, and after tooth eruption.)
Extra Cuddles: Sometimes the best remedy is comfort. Teething can feel overwhelming for your little one, so those extra snuggles really do make a difference.

Looking After New Teeth from Day One

Teething isn’t just about soothing gums - it’s also the start of your child’s lifelong oral health journey. Here are a few essentials:

Wipe, then brush: Before the first tooth appears, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth. Once teeth erupt, switch to a baby toothbrush with water or a tiny smear of baby toothpaste or MamaSmiles teething gel.
Avoid sugary snacks and drinks: Early teeth are especially vulnerable to decay.
Set the routine early: Brushing twice daily becomes much easier if it’s part of your baby’s life from the very beginning.

Caring for Yourself Along the Way

It’s easy to forget yourself when you’re up at 2am with a teething baby. But calmer parents mean calmer babies. Simple things like staying hydrated, sharing night duty if possible, and having realistic expectations about sleep can help you through this phase.

A Gentle Helping Hand

Teething is temporary, but when you’re in the middle of it, it can feel endless. The right support can make all the difference - for your baby’s comfort, and for your peace of mind.

At MamaSmiles, we’re here to walk this journey with you. Our natural teething gel was designed by dentists and made for parents who want safe, effective everyday care. Because happy gums mean happier days - and hopefully, a little more sleep for everyone.

👉 Discover MamaSmiles Teething Gel

Key Takeaways

Teething usually starts between 4-7 months, but it varies widely.
Cooling, massage, and cuddles are safe, effective ways to soothe discomfort.
Start oral care early - wipe gums, then brush once teeth appear.
Looking after yourself is just as important as looking after your baby.

Final Thought: Teething is a season, not a lifetime. With gentle support and daily care, you’ll not only survive it - you’ll help your baby build a healthy foundation for years of smiles.

Try Teething Gel | Berry Flavour

Naturally soothes gums
Supports healthy tooth development
Dentist-developed formula
No numbing agents or anaesthetics
Fluoride & sugar free
Gentle enough for daily use

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About the Authors

Dr Jack Brazel and Dr John Krezel, Co-Founders of MamaSmiles

Dr Jack Brazel BChD Dr John Krezel BChD, MSc, DClinDent, MPros RCSEd, MFDS RCSEd

Co-Founders, MamaSmiles

Jack and John are award-winning dentists with clinical experience across Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. John is a Specialist Prosthodontist registered with the GDC and Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Michigan. They co-founded MamaSmiles out of a shared belief that families deserve oral care products held to the same standard as clinical recommendations.

Our story Jack on LinkedIn

This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have specific concerns about your child's oral health or your own during pregnancy, please speak to your dentist, GP, midwife, or pharmacist.