Teething is one of those parenting milestones that nobody warns you about quite enough. One day your baby is all smiles, and the next they're drooling, grizzly, and impossible to settle. If you're in the thick of it right now, you're not alone - and more importantly, there are things that genuinely help.
This guide covers everything you need to know about teething relief, including the best baby teething toys UK parents are reaching for right now.
When Does Teething Start?
Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months, though it can start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. The first teeth to appear are usually the bottom front teeth (lower central incisors), followed by the top front teeth.
The full set of 20 baby teeth typically comes through by age 3 - so yes, teething is a long game. The good news is that not every tooth causes the same level of discomfort, and you'll get better at spotting the signs.
Signs Your Baby Is Teething
- Excessive drooling
- Chewing on everything in sight
- Red, swollen gums
- Flushed cheeks
- Disrupted sleep
- Increased fussiness or crying
- Pulling at ears (on the same side as an emerging tooth)
It's worth noting that high fever, diarrhoea, and vomiting are not typical teething symptoms - if your baby has these, speak to your GP.
What Actually Works for Teething Relief
1. Teething Toys
A good teething toy gives babies something safe to chew on, which provides counter-pressure against the gums and genuine relief. Not all teething toys are created equal though - look for ones made from food-grade silicone, free from BPA, PVC, and phthalates.
Our Mushie Teething Ring - Bunny and Mushie Teething Ring - Puppy are firm favourites with parents. Made from 100% food-grade silicone, they're soft enough to be gentle on sore gums but firm enough to provide real relief. The animal shapes also make them easy for little hands to grip.
For babies who love to shake and chew, the Mushie Daisy Rattle Teether
2. Chilled (Not Frozen) Teething Toys
Popping a teething toy in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before use can make it even more soothing. The cool temperature helps reduce gum inflammation. Avoid freezing teething toys - frozen toys can be too hard and may damage delicate gums.
3. Gum Massage
Clean your finger and gently rub your baby's gums with firm, circular pressure. Many babies find this immediately soothing. It works on the same principle as a teething toy - counter-pressure relieves the discomfort of a tooth pushing through.
4. Cold Flannel
A clean, damp flannel chilled in the fridge works brilliantly as a low-cost teething aid. Babies love the texture and the cool temperature. Just supervise closely and replace regularly.
5. Teething Gels - With Caution
Some parents swear by teething gels, but it's worth knowing that the NHS advises caution with products containing lidocaine or benzocaine, particularly in babies under 2. If you do use a teething gel, choose one specifically formulated for babies and follow the dosage instructions carefully. Always check with your pharmacist or health visitor if you're unsure.
6. Pain Relief When Needed
For particularly difficult nights, infant paracetamol or ibuprofen (for babies over 3 months) can help. Always follow the dosage guidelines for your baby's age and weight, and don't use these as a first resort - save them for when your baby is genuinely distressed.
Keeping Skin Comfortable During Teething
All that drool can cause a rash around your baby's mouth, chin, and neck. Keep the area clean and dry, and apply a gentle barrier cream to protect the skin. The Mustela Nappy Barrier Cream
What Doesn't Work (and What to Avoid)
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❌ Amber teething necklaces
- no clinical evidence they work, and they pose a strangulation and choking hazard
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❌ Teething biscuits
- high in sugar and not recommended before 12 months
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❌ Rubbing alcohol on gums
- never do this
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❌ Frozen teething toys
- too hard and can damage gums
A Note on Teething and Sleep
Teething can disrupt sleep, but try to maintain your usual bedtime routine as much as possible. Offer extra comfort and cuddles, and if your baby wakes in the night, a teething toy or gentle gum massage can help settle them without creating new sleep associations you'll need to undo later.
When to See a Dentist
The NHS recommends taking your baby to the dentist as soon as their first tooth appears, or by their first birthday at the latest. Starting early helps your child get comfortable with dental visits and allows any issues to be spotted early.
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