Baby Teething Timeline

Excessive Drooling

Increased saliva production is one of the earliest and most common signs of teething. The extra drool can cause a rash on the chin, cheeks, and neck.

Fussiness and Irritability

As the tooth pushes through the gum tissue, the pressure and inflammation cause discomfort that often leads to general crankiness and crying spells.

Gum Swelling and Tenderness

The gums around the erupting tooth become red, swollen, and sensitive to touch. A small bluish blister (eruption cyst) may appear over the emerging tooth.

Sleep Disruption

Teething discomfort tends to intensify at night because there are fewer distractions, often leading to frequent waking, difficulty falling asleep, and shorter naps.

Biting and Gnawing

Babies instinctively chew and bite on objects to apply counter-pressure on the gums, which helps relieve the aching sensation caused by the emerging tooth.

Decreased Appetite

Sore gums can make sucking and chewing painful, leading babies to refuse the breast, bottle, or solid foods temporarily.

Ear Pulling and Cheek Rubbing

Babies often tug at their ears or rub their cheeks and jaw because the pain from teething can radiate along the nerve pathways to these areas.

Mild Fever (Below 100.4F / 38C)

A very slight increase in body temperature may occur due to gum inflammation, though high fever is NOT a symptom of teething and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Changes in Bowel Movements

Some parents notice slightly looser stools during teething, possibly related to increased saliva swallowed. True diarrhea is not caused by teething and should be evaluated.

Gum Hematoma (Eruption Cyst)

A bluish-purple or dark-colored swelling on the gum where a tooth is about to emerge. This is a small pocket of fluid or blood and is usually harmless.