10 Telltale Signs Your Baby Is Teething and How to Soothe Them

Your baby’s first tooth is such an exciting milestone — but let’s be honest, it’s not always a smooth ride. Around 4 to 7 months old, most babies start teething, and that tiny tooth can bring along a big wave of drool, crankiness, and sleepless nights.

If your little one suddenly seems fussier than usual, you might be wondering, “Could they be teething?” Here are the top 10 signs to look for — plus gentle, effective ways to help soothe your baby through it.

1. Increased Drooling

If you find yourself constantly wiping your baby’s chin or changing damp bibs, teething might be the reason.
When teeth are pushing through the gums, saliva production increases dramatically. While it’s harmless, excess drool can cause mild skin irritation around the mouth or chin — so keep those areas clean and dry.

💡 Tip: Soft, absorbent muslin bibs can help keep your baby comfortable all day.

2. Chewing on Everything

From teething toys to their own fingers, babies love to chew to relieve gum pressure. It’s one of the clearest teething signs.
Offer safe teething toys made from food-grade silicone or soft natural rubber — and avoid anything too hard or filled with gel that can leak.

3. Swollen or Red Gums

A peek inside your baby’s mouth might reveal swollen, red, or slightly bruised-looking gums — especially in the area where a tooth is about to emerge. You may even notice a small white bump under the surface.

To comfort your baby, gently rub their gums with a clean finger or a cool, damp washcloth.

4. Fussiness or Irritability

Teething discomfort can make even the happiest babies cranky. The pressure of new teeth pushing through delicate gums can lead to irritability, especially in the evenings or before naps.

Sometimes, extra cuddles, rocking, or babywearing can help your little one feel more secure and calm.

5. Trouble Sleeping

If your baby suddenly starts waking up more often at night, teething may be to blame. Pain and gum pressure can make it difficult for them to settle down — but remember, this phase is temporary.
Stick to your bedtime routine, keep the lights dim, and offer comfort when needed.

6. Refusing to Eat

Sore gums can make sucking painful, causing your baby to refuse the bottle, breast, or spoon. Don’t worry — this usually lasts just a few days.
Try feeding when your baby is calm and offer softer foods (for older babies) like purees or cool fruit in a mesh feeder.

7. Slightly Elevated Temperature (but not fever)

A mild increase in temperature (below 100.4°F or 38°C) is common during teething. However, a true fever, rash, or diarrhea usually signals something else — so contact your pediatrician if symptoms persist or worsen.

8. Rubbing Ears or Cheeks

The nerves in your baby’s gums extend to the ears and cheeks, which can cause them to tug, rub, or scratch at these areas.
While it’s normal, always check for signs of an ear infection if your baby seems unusually uncomfortable.

9. More Crying Than Usual

Some babies sail through teething, while others cry more often from the discomfort. Be patient and understanding — your little one isn’t just being fussy; they’re experiencing something new and strange.
Extra snuggles and gentle words can go a long way in helping them feel safe and loved.

10. You Can See (or Feel) a Tooth Coming In

Finally — the proof! Run a clean finger along your baby’s gums. If you feel a small hard bump or spot a tiny white edge, congratulations — that first tooth is making its grand debut!

How to Soothe a Teething Baby

Here are a few safe and simple ways to help your baby feel better:

1. Chilled teething rings: Keep one in the fridge (not the freezer). The coolness helps numb sore gums.
2. Gum massage: Use a clean finger to gently rub your baby’s gums in small circles.
3. Soft teethers: Offer BPA-free silicone or organic wooden teething toys for them to gnaw on.
4. Stay dry: Change bibs often and wipe drool gently to prevent rashes.
5. Avoid numbing gels: Skip teething gels with benzocaine or lidocaine — they’re not safe for infants, per the FDA.

And most importantly — lots of cuddles. Sometimes, your presence is the most soothing remedy of all.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

While teething is normal, call your doctor if your baby has:

• A fever over 100.4°F (38°C)

• Diarrhea or vomiting

• A rash or unusual crying spells

• Refuses to feed for more than 24 hours

It’s always better to check than to guess.

Final Thoughts

Teething can be tough, but it’s also a big step toward your baby’s growing independence.
With a little patience, comfort, and love — you’ll both get through it just fine.

💛 Explore our PrettyBirds baby collection — from ultra-soft bibs to soothing teethers, thoughtfully designed to keep your little one happy through every milestone.