Your baby is crying more than usual. They're chewing on everything. They're dribbling more than you've ever seen. They can't sleep and they seem generally miserable.

It must be teething, right? Well, maybe — but not always. Teething gets blamed for a lot of things that might have other causes. Let's look at what teething actually does and doesn't do.

Signs Your Baby Is Teething

The most common signs are swollen, red gums where the tooth is about to come through. Your baby might drool more and want to chew on cold things. They might be more irritable and have trouble sleeping.

Some babies get a mild temperature when a tooth is erupting. But teething does not cause a high fever or diarrhoea — if your baby has those symptoms, something else is going on and you should see a doctor.

Baby teeth typically start appearing around six months, but it varies widely. Some babies are born with teeth; others don't get their first until after their first birthday. Both are normal.

What Actually Helps a Teething Baby

Cold things work best. A clean, refrigerated teething ring gives your baby something safe to chew on. A cold, wet flannel is another option.

You can gently rub your baby's gums with a clean finger. Some parents find that massaging the gums relieves pressure and discomfort.

Teething gels can help, but use them sparingly and choose a sugar-free version. If you're unsure, ask your pharmacist or dentist for advice.

When to See a Doctor vs a Dentist

For general teething discomfort, a dentist can offer advice on safe remedies and what to expect as your baby's teeth come through.

But if your baby has a high temperature, vomiting, diarrhoea, a rash, or symptoms that seem more serious than simple gum discomfort, see your doctor first. Teething shouldn't make a baby seriously ill.

Your dentist can also check that teeth are coming through properly at your child's first dental visit — which should happen by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth appearing.

Looking After Those First Teeth

Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste on a soft baby toothbrush. Making it part of the bedtime routine now means fewer problems later.

Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com

Meads Village Dental Practice