For many parents, teething is one of the first exciting milestones in their baby’s development. While spotting those tiny first teeth can be a special moment, managing to cope with teething can sometimes be a challenge, so knowing what to expect during each stage can help you feel more reassured, confident and prepared.

Meet the experts, Dr Annie Smith and Dr Mary Batista

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When does teething normally start?

Most babies begin teething between four and seven months of age, although every child develops at their own pace. Some babies may show signs earlier, while others may not get their first tooth until closer to their first birthday.

Typically, the lower front teeth appear first, followed by the upper front teeth, with gaps of weeks or months between each tooth rising to the surface.  

By around three years, most children will have a complete set of 20 primary teeth.

Teething symptoms to look out for in your baby

As teeth begin to move through the gums, babies can experience a range of symptoms, including:

·        Increased drooling

·        A desire to chew or bite objects

·        Red or swollen gums

·        Irritability and fussiness

·        Changes to sleeping patterns

·        Mild loss of appetite

·        Flushed cheeks

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How to cope with teething at every stage

Every baby’s teething journey is different. Some babies breeze through it with very few symptoms, while others may need a little extra comfort and reassurance. But it’s all a natural part of development and there are several gentle ways parents can help ease their baby’s discomfort.

Try safe teething aids to soothe gums

Providing safe, age-appropriate teething toys gives babies something soothing to chew on while helping relieve pressure on tender gums. A clean teether cooled in the fridge can provide gentle relief when your baby, but remember to avoid freezing teethers, as very cold temperatures can irritate sensitive gums.

Gently Massage baby’s Gums

Gently massaging gums is another great way to ease the pain of emerging teeth.

Using a clean finger to softly rub your baby’s gums can help ease discomfort and provide reassurance.  

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Introduce the Brushi Bear™ Starter Set

 Alternatively, the Brushi Bear™ Starter Set, comes with a silicone gum massager head and features gentle sonic pulsations, which can help provide comfort and soothe sore gums during the teething process.  

The Brushi Bear™ Starter Set also comes with a double-sided brush head, which can then be used to clean teeth once they have pushed through to the surface.

Using Brushi Bear™ from the teething stages, is a great way to set the stage for brushing, as little ones will have a positive association with Brushi Bear™ by the time you're ready to switch to the brush head to clean new teeth.  

Being there for baby is the best way to cope with teething

Atthe end of the day, the best way to get through teething as painlessly as possible, is simply being there for baby.

Extra cuddles, soothing words and plenty of patience go a long way to helping your little one feel secure and comforted during difficult teething days, while also being a wonderful opportunity for bonding.

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