Teething

Most babies start to get teeth anywhere between four and seven months of age. The two bottom teeth usually appear first, and then the four upper teeth may appear about a month or two later. If your child doesn’t show any teeth until later, it’s nothing to worry about. Teeth come in at their own pace.

When your baby is teething, he may be irritable, drooling and even running a low-grade fever (not over 100º F). The gums around his teeth may be swollen and tender. You can massage his gums with your finger, or even give him a firm rubber teething ring to chew on.

If your baby seems miserable and has a fever over 100°F (37.8°C), it’s probably something other than teething. It’s a good idea to call your pediatrician’s office to discuss what’s going on with your baby.

You can clean your baby’s new teeth by brushing them with a child’s soft toothbrush, or wiping them with gauze each night at bedtime.