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Teething is a major milestone in your baby’s first year, but it can also be a confusing time for new parents. One of the most common questions we hear is, “When should I start giving my baby a teether?” The answer isn’t always straightforward because every baby develops at their own pace. However, there are clear signs that indicate your little one is ready for some soothing relief from a teether. Recognizing these baby teething signs early can help you provide comfort before the discomfort becomes overwhelming.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through five unmistakable cues that your baby is ready for a teether. We’ll also share tips on choosing the right teether for each stage, so you can feel confident supporting your baby through this natural process.
1. Excessive Drooling and Chewing on Fists
One of the earliest and most noticeable teething cues is a sudden increase in drool. You might find your baby’s chin constantly wet, and their clothes soaked more often than usual. This happens because the body produces extra saliva to help soothe irritated gums as teeth begin to push through. Alongside the drool, you’ll likely see your baby chewing on their fists, fingers, or anything they can get their hands on. This is their natural instinct to apply counter-pressure to the gums, which can temporarily relieve soreness.
When you observe this behavior, it’s a strong signal that your baby is ready for a teether. Offering a safe, soft silicone teether like the Chompy Mushroom Silicone Teether 2PK - Red & Green can provide targeted relief. The textured surfaces are designed to massage gums gently, and the easy-to-grip handles make it simple for tiny hands to hold. Plus, having two colors means you can keep one clean while the other is in use.
- Tip: Keep a soft bib handy to manage drool and prevent skin irritation.
2. Irritability and Fussiness, Especially at Night
Teething pain often worsens at night because babies have fewer distractions and the pressure from lying down can increase discomfort. If your usually happy baby becomes unusually fussy, cries more than normal, or has trouble settling down for naps and bedtime, teething could be the culprit. The inflammation in the gums can cause a dull, aching sensation that disrupts sleep and mood.
A chilled (not frozen) teether can be incredibly soothing during these times. The RaZberry Teether Plus - Mint is an excellent choice because its unique shape reaches multiple gum areas at once, and the BPA-free silicone can be safely cooled in the refrigerator. The mint color is also visually calming for babies. Offering it before sleep can help your baby self-soothe and drift off more peacefully.
3. Red, Swollen, or Visible Bumps on Gums
Sometimes you can actually see the signs of teething by looking inside your baby’s mouth. Healthy gums should be pink and smooth. When a tooth is about to erupt, the gum tissue may look red, puffy, or even have a small white or translucent bump where the tooth is pushing through. You might also notice your baby rubbing their gums with their tongue or making chewing motions even when nothing is in their mouth.
At this stage, a teether with varied textures can provide the most relief. The Chompy Mushroom Grip Silicone Teether Toy - Blue features multiple nubs and ridges that massage different areas of the gums. Its sturdy grip is perfect for babies who are starting to develop fine motor skills. The soft silicone is gentle enough for sore gums but firm enough to provide effective counter-pressure.
- Important: Always inspect teethers for wear and tear. Replace if you see cracks or damage.
4. Changes in Eating or Nursing Patterns
Teething can affect your baby’s appetite. Some babies become fussy at the breast or bottle because the sucking motion increases blood flow to the gums, making them more sensitive. Others may want to nurse more frequently for comfort, but then pull away after a few seconds. If your baby is eating solid foods, they might refuse the spoon or turn their head away from purees they usually enjoy.
A teether can help distract and soothe your baby before feeding sessions. The RaZ-Apple Teether & Rattle Toy combines a fun rattle sound with a soft, chewable apple shape that babies love. The easy-to-hold handle lets your baby practice grasping while soothing their gums. Offering it 10–15 minutes before a feed can help relax your baby and make eating more comfortable.
- Tip: If your baby refuses the breast or bottle, try offering a chilled teether first to numb the gums slightly.
5. Pulling at Ears or Rubbing Cheeks
Teething pain doesn’t just stay in the mouth. The nerves in the gums connect to the ears and cheeks, so babies often pull at their ears or rub their cheeks when they’re teething. This can sometimes be confused with an ear infection, but if there’s no fever or other symptoms, teething is usually the cause. You may also notice your baby gnawing on the side of their mouth where the tooth is coming in.
When you see this behavior, it’s time to offer a teether that targets the back molars or side gums. The JollyPop Pacifier Newborn | 0-3m | Teal is designed for younger babies but also works well as a gentle teether for the front teeth. For older babies who are cutting molars, a larger teether like the Chompy Mushroom Grip Silicone Teether Toy - Blue can reach those hard-to-soothe areas. Always supervise your baby during teething play to ensure safety.
- Note: If ear pulling is accompanied by fever or fussiness that lasts more than a few days, consult your pediatrician to rule out an ear infection.
Recognizing the signs that your baby is ready for a teether can make the teething journey smoother for both of you. From excessive drooling to nighttime fussiness, each cue is your baby’s way of telling you they need relief. By choosing a safe, age-appropriate teether, you can provide comfort and support their development. Ready to explore soothing options? Check out the Chompy Mushroom Silicone Teether 2PK - Red & Green for a versatile, baby-friendly teether that addresses multiple teething cues at once.