A baby's first tooth usually appears around 6 months, and all 20 baby teeth are in by about two and a half to three years. Babies can be a little fussy while teething.
Common teething signs
- Extra drooling
- Chewing on anything within reach
- Swollen, sore gums
- Some disturbed sleep
How to soothe them
- Offer a clean, chilled teething ring
- Gently massage the gums with a clean finger
- Don't give any gel or medicine without a doctor's advice
Caring for baby teeth
From the first tooth, brush twice a day with a soft baby brush and a rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste. Don't let your baby sleep with a bottle — it causes 'bottle cavities'.
When to see a dentist
Take your child for their first dental check-up after the first tooth appears, or by their first birthday.