Toddlers Teething Relief

If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’ve been up at 2 a.m. with a fussy baby who just can’t settle. The drool is constant, the chewing is relentless, and the sleepless nights feel endless. At Junior Smiles of Stafford, we want you to know—you’re not alone. Every parent goes through this stage, and while teething can feel overwhelming, the good news is there are safe, effective ways to comfort your child. As your local pediatric dental team, we’ve created this guide to walk you through what’s normal, what’s not, and how to bring your little one (and yourself) some much-needed relief.

What to Expect When They’re Teething: A Timeline for Your Baby’s First Teeth

For many parents, the first tooth feels like a major milestone—because it is! Teething usually begins somewhere between 4 to 7 months, though some babies may show early signs as young as 3 months. Don’t worry if your child doesn’t follow the “typical” schedule to the day; every baby is different.

In general, the two bottom front teeth are the first to arrive, followed by the matching pair up top. Over the next couple of years, teeth usually erupt in pairs, working their way around the mouth until your child has a full set of 20 baby teeth by about age 3.

A branded teething chart (insert infographic here) can help you visualize which teeth come in when, so you can anticipate what’s ahead. Data from the American Dental Association (ADA) provides the standard timeline, and knowing what’s coming next can bring peace of mind during those tough nights.

Is It Really Teething? Telltale Signs vs. Medical Red Flags

Drooling, chewing on everything in sight, irritability, red or swollen gums—these are all par for the course when your baby is teething. Some little ones even run a slightly higher temperature than usual, though it’s usually low-grade and nothing to worry about.

But here’s the important distinction: teething does not cause high fevers, diarrhea, vomiting, or rashes. If your baby shows these symptoms, it’s time to check in with your pediatrician. As pediatric dental specialists, we often work closely with physicians, and together we emphasize that not every fussy day is a teething day. When in doubt, trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s better to call your doctor.

The Junior Smiles Toolkit: 5 Safe & Dentist-Approved Ways to Soothe Sore Gums at Home

Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds of Stafford families find safe relief for teething discomfort. Think of the following as your “dentist-approved toolkit.”

Sometimes, the simplest approach works best: clean fingers and gentle gum massage can go a long way. Applying slight pressure helps soothe sore spots and gives your baby a sense of comfort.

Coolness also works wonders. A chilled (not frozen) teething ring or a clean, damp washcloth placed in the fridge can provide numbing relief. Just avoid anything rock-solid from the freezer, which can hurt tender gums.

Feeding is another natural comfort measure. Whether through nursing or bottle-feeding, the act of sucking helps calm many babies, even if only for a short time.

Don’t underestimate the power of distraction, either. Extra cuddles, a favorite toy, or a short walk can sometimes be just the break your baby needs from the discomfort.

And finally, there are situations where medication helps. Acetaminophen is often safe for babies, and ibuprofen may be used after six months of age, always according to your pediatrician’s or dentist’s guidance and based on your child’s weight. If you’re ever unsure about dosage, call us or your pediatrician before giving medicine.

A Critical Warning: Teething “Remedies” We Urge You to AVOID

While there are many safe ways to help your child, there are also products we strongly caution against.

Over-the-counter numbing gels containing benzocaine (often marketed as Orajel or Anbesol) can cause a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia, which reduces the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. For this reason, the FDA has issued strong warnings against their use in infants and young children.

Homeopathic teething tablets and so-called “natural” teething oils may sound harmless, but the reality is that they often contain inconsistent ingredients, and some have been linked to toxic side effects.

And while amber teething necklaces may look trendy, they pose very real risks of choking and strangulation. For us, safety comes first—always.

For more on these warnings, we recommend reviewing the FDA’s official statements.

A Special Note: Teething Tips for Children with Special Healthcare Needs

Teething can present unique challenges for children with sensory sensitivities, developmental differences, or complex medical conditions. For example, some children may struggle with gum massage or oral stimulation, while others may need adapted feeding tools or carefully chosen pain relief to avoid medication interactions.

At Junior Smiles of Stafford, our team has advanced training in caring for children with special healthcare needs. We’ll partner with you to find solutions that keep your child comfortable while respecting their unique sensitivities and health considerations.

A New Tooth is Here! What Happens Next?

That first tooth isn’t just a milestone—it’s the start of your child’s oral health journey. Once a tooth has erupted, begin gently cleaning it twice a day with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and a smear (the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste.

Teething is also the perfect reminder to schedule your child’s first dental visit. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children see a dentist by age 1 or within 6 months of their first tooth erupting. This visit is about much more than checking teeth—it’s about setting the foundation for lifelong oral health and giving you a chance to ask questions in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Your Partner for a Healthy Smile in Stafford, VA

At Junior Smiles of Stafford, we believe every new tooth is worth celebrating. Our office is designed to be a place where children feel safe and parents feel supported. Whether you’re navigating sleepless nights with a teething baby or scheduling that all-important first dental check-up, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to give your child the best start for a healthy smile?
👉 https://juniorsmilesofstafford.com/contact/ or call us at (540) 699-2441
📍 Visit our kid-friendly office at 963 Garrisonville Rd #103 Stafford VA