Teething is one of the most memorable milestones in your baby’s first year — a sign they’re growing and preparing to explore new foods and textures. However, it can also bring discomfort, drooling, and changes in sleep. Understanding the teething stages for infants, knowing how long teething lasts, and learning soothing strategies can support your baby through this process [1].
This guide explains when infants start teething, timelines, discomfort duration, and what to expect at each stage.
Most babies begin teething between 4 to 7 months of age, although some may begin earlier or later [1,2]. Genetics, nutrition, and growth patterns influence timing.
While timing varies, the infant teething stages generally follow a predictable order.
| Baby’s Age | Teeth Erupting | What to Expect |
| 4–7 months | Lower Central Incisors | First visible signs of teething, increased drooling and chewing |
| 8–12 months | Upper Central Incisors | More visible smile changes; gum tenderness |
| 9–16 months | Lateral Incisors | More irritability, biting objects |
| 13–19 months | First Molars | Larger tooth buds cause more discomfort |
| 16–23 months | Canines (Cuspids) | Possible peak in teething pain |
| 23–33 months | Second Molars | Final stage; full set of primary teeth by age 3 |
Teething typically progresses in this pattern, but normal variation exists [3].
Each tooth may take 1–2 weeks from first gum swelling to eruption [2,3].
The full teething process usually spans from 4 months to 3 years.
First teeth and molars often cause more discomfort, while others may emerge with mild or no symptoms [3].
Most babies experience discomfort for a few days before and after each tooth breaks through [4].
Common symptoms include [1,4]:
If symptoms persist beyond one week without eruption, consult a pediatrician.
Mild temperature rise under 38°C (100.4°F) can occur from gum inflammation [5].
High fever, vomiting, or diarrhea are not linked to teething and may indicate illness [5].
A low-grade teething-related fever typically lasts 24–48 hours around eruption [5].
Seek medical evaluation if fever exceeds 38°C or lasts longer than two days.
Safe methods to relieve discomfort include [2,6]:
Some babies experience tummy discomfort along with irritability. Families have traditionally used Woodward’s Gripe Water to ease gas, acidity, and hiccups during fussy periods [7].
It is not a treatment for teething pain or fever but may complement soothing routines when used responsibly and under pediatric guidance.
Sore gums may temporarily reduce appetite. Support feeding by offering [3,6]:
These adjustments help maintain nutrition during discomfort.
Contact your pediatrician if your baby experiences [5]:
These symptoms are not related to teething.
Teething is a natural and important developmental process. By understanding the teething stages for infants, recognizing normal discomfort and fevers, and knowing how long teething pain lasts, parents can confidently care for their child through each milestone.
With patience, comfort measures, and supportive remedies when appropriate, this phase becomes much easier to manage. Every new tooth represents progress toward smiling, chewing, and engaging with the world in new ways.
