New teeth usually erupt from about 6 months, but there is often gum discomfort preceding this. Your baby’s first teeth can take up to 16 months to emerge. There are 20 primary teeth and 32 permanent teeth with a full set of primary teeth usually present by 2 to 3 years of age.
Symptoms of teething include:
- Irritability – usually as teeth are about to emerge
- Drooling – often from 3 to 4 months, well before teeth appear
- Biting and gnawing
- Chin rash from excess saliva
- Ear pulling – gum pain may be transmitted to ear and cheeks, and babies will often fidget more in this area
Helpful treatments for teething discomfort:
- Chilled rubber teething rings
- Cooled foods such as yoghurt, apple sauce, etc.
- Local relief with teething gell