Teething in Babies: Symptoms, Myths, Pain Relief and Dental Care

Dr. Sandip Gupta

Pediatrician Dr. Sandip Gupta gives parents a complete guide to the teething process in infants and toddlers — what's normal, common myths, and practical ways to relieve teething discomfort. What is covered in this video: Timeline: Teething typically begins between 4 to 7 months of age. The full process for a single tooth usually takes about 10-14 days, starting with gum swelling before the tooth breaks through. Common symptoms: Excessive drooling, gum inflammation, irritability, and the baby chewing on objects. Myths vs facts: Fever or diarrhea are generally not direct symptoms of teething itself — they are more likely caused by infections from the baby putting contaminated objects in the mouth to soothe sore gums. Green-colored stools are common during teething due to increased swallowing of saliva. Relieving teething pain: Gently massaging the swollen gum area with clean fingers; using a clean cloth dipped in cold water for the baby to bite on; giving a silicone teether; offering firm, safe-to-chew pieces of carrot or cucumber that the baby cannot swallow; and consulting a pediatrician about safe paracetamol drops or other medication if discomfort persists. Dental care: Dental hygiene should start as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush or a clean finger with a small amount of toothpaste to gently clean the gums and teeth twice daily. It's fine if the baby swallows a small amount of toothpaste. Questions this video answers: At what age does teething usually start? How long does teething last for one tooth? What are the symptoms of teething in babies? Does teething cause fever or diarrhea? Why does my baby have green stools during teething? What can I do to relieve my baby's teething pain? Is it safe to give a baby a teether or cold cloth to chew on? Can I give carrot or cucumber pieces to a teething baby? Can I give paracetamol to a baby for teething pain? When should I start brushing my baby's teeth? How should I clean a baby's first tooth and gums? Who this is for: Parents of infants and toddlers going through or approaching the teething stage (roughly 4-7 months and older). Keywords: teething, teething symptoms, drooling, gum swelling, gum inflammation, chewing objects, irritability, teething fever myth, teething diarrhea myth, green stool, gum massage, cold compress, silicone teether, carrot cucumber teething, paracetamol drops, dental care for babies, first tooth, baby toothbrush, baby toothpaste, oral hygiene infants. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and awareness purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your pediatrician before giving any medication, including paracetamol, to your baby.