The age when teething begins varies with each child. Some have their first teeth emerging at three months, while others may not teethe until after their first birthday.

Teething can be very unpleasant for your child as it is often painful, especially when the premolars and molars come through.

Signs that your child is teething include:

  • Greatly increased flow of saliva
  • Baby rubs cheeks with hands
  • Reddened and sensitive gums
  • Flushed cheeks
  • Fever
  • Diarrhoea
  • Baby has problems sleeping and cries

Babies who are teething often need to chew on objects. Plastic teething rings are suitable as they have a cooking and pain-relieving effect. Dental gels available from the pharmacy also have an anti-inflammatory effect.