Teething can be a difficult time for baby.

Here's how to help.

Babies' teeth start growing anytime between 3 months and 1 year. No matter when baby's teeth start coming, there's bound to be a bit of discomfort.

Teething pain is created when teeth push through the delicate gum. This will make your baby cranky and more irritable than usual. Babies often drool more when teething, and occasionally they experience episodes of diarrhea. It's no wonder babies seems crabbier than usual!

Although one can't make baby's pain disappear, there are certain things you can do to help:


* Offer baby a chilled teething ring
* Chill your baby's food before feeding it to him or her
* Give baby cold water
* Chill a clean, wet cloth and gently press against baby's gums
* Use your finger to gently apply pressure to baby's gums. This often counteracts the pressure caused by the teeth coming in.
* As a last resort, Baby Tylenol will help. Be sure to check with your doctor before giving your baby the recommended dose.

If baby seems extremely uncomfortable, or teething is accompanied by any unusual symptoms, be sure to contact your pediatrician. In the meantime, give your baby some help through this uncomfortable time!

How can you tell if your baby is teething?

• She/he may seem desperate for something to chew on.
• She/he may dribble more than usual.
• A bright red patch may appear on one cheek.
• Motion maybe runnier than usual.
• She/he may develop nappy rash.

Teething does not cause:

• Colds, ear infection or breathing difficulties.
• Vomiting and diarrhoea.
• Fits and comvultions.
• Prolonged crying in a different way.

Usual order in which teeth appear

Age (month)

• 6-10        two lower front teeth
• 8-12        two upper front teeth
• 9-13        upperside front teeth
• 10-16      lower side front teeth
• 12-18      upper first molars/lower first molars
• 18-24      upper eye teeth/lower eye teeth
• 24-36      second molars

By this age your baby has a full set of 20 milk teeth