How to Soothe a Teething Baby

Discovering your child’s first tooth is an exciting milestone. But the feeling of achievement can soon be replaced by sleepless nights for the family as your baby goes through teething. However, there are many things you can do to help soothe your child and keep the rest of your household smiling.

Children

When do babies start teething?

What you should remember is that every baby develops differently. So while most get their first teeth between six and ten months, others may not get theirs until they’re one year old. Children will usually have all their teeth by the time they are about two and a half, however there are exceptions to the rule.

What are the symptoms of teething?

Before their first tooth appears, your child might show these early signs of teething:

Flushed cheeks
Sensitive red gums
Drooling
Desire to chew on whatever they can find
Crying
Refusing to eat
Waking up at night distressed

Sometimes you might be able to see your baby’s tooth coming through or you may feel a bump on their gum line. If you’re becoming worried your child is not well, then see your doctor.

Simple things to help soothe teething pains

When trying to bring your little one teething relief, extra cuddles and hugs go a long way. You’ll also find they often love to chew, so give them something firm and to bite on such as a teething ring - or even a chilled and sterilised one from the fridge.

Another thing you’ll find that may work is to lightly massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger. You’ll also want to consider using a pain-reliever such as ibuprofen, contained in Nurofen for Children.

3 tips for a happier household when your child is teething

Share night-time soothing duties with your partner
If night sleep is disrupted, encourage plenty of naps for the whole family
Make sure you take teething rings with you when you’re out and about

It’s never too early to care for your baby’s teeth

Plaque can quickly build up on your baby’s teeth as soon as they have them. That’s why caring for them from the start helps new teeth stay strong and healthy. It’s important to begin brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as they come up. Use a small, soft brush and a smear of regular strength fluoride toothpaste, brushing once during the day and again at night before your baby goes to bed. Also, avoid sugary drinks or milk after brushing to protect your child from tooth decay.

First published: 5th October 2021

Last updated: 14th September 2023

Important Information

This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your health professional.

Always read the label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Do not use if you have a stomach ulcer. Do not give to babies under 3 months of age. Seek medical advice for children under 12 months of age. Reckitt Benckiser, Auckland. TAPS-NA12827. RB-M-40838.

Also for Children

Nurofen for Children 7+ Years Pain & Fever Relief Chewable Capsules
Nurofen For Children Soft Chewable Capsules provides temporary relief of mild to moderate pain such as a sore throat, dental pain, ear ache, headache,
Pain & fever

Show 1 of 1

.swiper-wrapper { gap: 32px; } .cds-carousel-slide--fixed, .cds-carousel-slide--fluid { width: 362px !important; } .swiper { overflow: auto; }

See full product range

Need more advice?

Helping your Child During Cold and Flu season: Causes, Symptoms and Relief
Catching a cold is very common, especially during the winter months. While adults generally catch 2 to 5 colds each year, children can experience an average of 6-12 colds per year.
Cold & Flu
Children's Earache: Symptoms, Causes and Prevention
Earache is a common complaint that can occur at any age, but it is especially common in young children.1 Unfortunately, babies and young children are more prone to middle ear infection, known as otitis media.2 This common type of earache happens when the middle part of the ear becomes inflamed, which can occur after a mild viral infection like a cold.3 Earache can be distressing for children as well as parents when they see their young child in pain. So, it’s good to know what earache symptoms to look out for, the causes of earache, and how to treat an earache in a child.
Aches and pains
How To Get Your Child Through the Night With a Fever
Having a child with fever can be worrying for many parents. You may find yourself sitting by your child’s bed wondering how to keep them comfortable throughout the night – luckily, when there are no other worrying symptoms, caring for your child with a mild fever can be easily done at home.
Fever