20/02/2026
Teething Time! Is your baby chewing EVERYTHING?
As a parent, there's nothing more heartbreaking than seeing your baby in discomfort. But don't worry, we've got the lowdown on teething - what it is, when it starts, and how to soothe those sore gums!
What is Teething?
Teething 👶🏿🦷: The process when your baby's first teeth start to come out through the gums.
The first teeth are often the bottom front teeth.
When Does Teething Start?
Typically around 6 months old, but can start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.
Signs to Watch Out For👀:
Common Symptoms:
Drooling (some babies drool so much it irritates their chin!)
Gnawing or chewing on toys, fingers, or even furniture
Irritability or fussiness
Swollen or tender gums
Loss of appetite
Sleep disturbances
Ear pulling (because the pain can radiate to the ears)
What Can You Do to Help?🙏🏿
Teething Relief:
Offer cold teething toys or a cold, wet washcloth to chew on
Gently massage your baby's gums with your finger (wash your hands before doing this).
Try teething gels or ointments (but always check with your doctor first)
Keep those little hands clean to prevent infection from all the gnawing
Provide plenty of cuddles and reassurance - sometimes, all they need is a little love!
Wipe drool: Keep the chin dry to help stop a drool rash with a gentle clean cloth.
When to call the doctor👨🏿⚕️🏥
If you notice the following:
Fever over 38°C
Diarrhea or vomiting
Baby seems very sick, very sleepy, or hard to comfort
Poor feeding or fewer wet diapers
A rash that is spreading or looks infected
So, if your baby is going through the teething phase, remember: you're not alone! With a little patience and some helpful tips, you can make this journey a bit more comfortable for both you and your little one.
Share Your Teething Stories! How did you help your baby through teething? What worked best for you? Let's chat in the comments below!
TinyDreamersZW
