First teeth often appear around six months, but some babies start earlier or later. Drooling, chewing and tender gums can happen. Do not assume fever or diarrhoea is caused by teething. Look at how your baby seems overall.
Sources: NHS
What you see and what you suspect
- Observe
- What?For example, more chewing
- Consider
- What else?Feeding, alertness and other symptoms
- Act
- SupportSeek professional advice when concerned
When do babies start teething?
Timing is not a competition. Another baby’s visible teeth tell you little about when your own baby’s tooth will emerge. Tooth development should not become an explanation for every unsettled week.
Sources: NHS
What have you noticed?
Start with what you can see: “My baby is chewing their hand a lot today.” Avoid jumping to “They are feeding poorly because of teething.” Note when the change began and what else you notice. This makes symptoms easier to discuss.
For sleep, ask a specific question: is settling different, or does your baby seem uncomfortable during the day too?
What may help with teething?
Cuddling and quiet play may offer distraction. A suitable teething ring can be chilled according to its instructions, but never frozen. Never attach it with a cord around the neck. Ask a pharmacist or clinician for age-appropriate advice about medicines or gels.
Sources: NHS
A simple approach to unsettled moments
You do not need to try five things at once. Choose one simple way to comfort your baby and notice their response. If another adult takes over, briefly explain what you already tried. That turns conflicting suggestions into manageable support.
The aim is not to make every uncomfortable moment disappear instantly. It is to stay available and take changes seriously.
When to seek support
Get prompt advice for fever, markedly poorer feeding, fewer wet diapers or unusual drowsiness. Do not wait for a tooth to appear. Call your local emergency number for breathing difficulty or unresponsiveness.
Common questions
Does teething cause diarrhoea?
The NHS reports no evidence for this. Diarrhoea needs its own assessment.
Can I freeze a teething ring?
No. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for chilling in the refrigerator.
Must I stop breastfeeding when teeth appear?
No. Teeth emerging alone are not a reason to stop breastfeeding.
Sources & further information
The sources for this guide are linked below. Examples and everyday tips help explain the topic; they are not a personal plan for your baby. Sources last accessed on 21 September 2026.
- NHS: Baby teething symptoms
UK public-health guidance.
- NHS: Tips for helping your teething baby
UK public-health guidance.
- NHS: Dehydration
UK public-health guidance.
This guide was created with AI assistance and has not been medically reviewed. How we create our guides.
