When Should You Give Your Little One Their First Teether? Expert Advice for New Parents

Parenthood is full of "firsts"—first smiles, first steps, and, of course, the first time your baby gnaws on something as if it owes them money. One of those “firsts” you might be wondering about is: When should I give my baby their first teether? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. For new parents, teething can feel as mysterious as deciphering baby cries—only with way more drool.

Let’s talk about teethers, teething timelines, and some tips to keep both you and your little one happy during this drool-heavy milestone.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Teething is one of those milestones that makes babies adorable and unpredictable. Most babies start showing signs of teething between 4 to 7 months, though the exact timing varies. Some "overachievers" may get their first tooth as early as 3 months, while others might wait until closer to their first birthday.

But here’s the kicker: teething symptoms often show up before any tooth actually appears. Your previously calm and happy baby might suddenly start drooling like a faucet, chewing on anything they can grab, and occasionally throwing mini tantrums. That’s your cue—it’s time to introduce the teether.

Why Do Babies Need Teethers?

Imagine growing teeth without knowing why it hurts or how to stop it—that’s your baby’s reality. Teethers are like tiny tools of relief for their sore, swollen gums. Biting down on a teether provides counterpressure that can ease discomfort and even distract them from the pain.

Plus, giving your baby a teether can save your fingers, furniture, and anything else within gnawing range from becoming their personal chew toy. Trust me, they’ll chew on everything.

Signs Your Baby Is Ready for a Teether

Not sure when to start? Watch for these telltale signs:

1. Drooling Like a Pro: If your baby suddenly needs a bib 24/7, their salivary glands are officially working overtime.
2. Chewing on Everything: Toys, blankets, your shoulder—nothing is safe.
3. Fussiness and Irritability: Teething discomfort can turn even the calmest baby into a grumpy little grouch.
4. Red or Swollen Gums: If their gums look like they’ve been in a boxing match, teething is likely the culprit.

If your baby shows these signs, congratulations—you’ve entered the teething phase!

How to Choose the Perfect Teether

Not all teethers are created equal. Here are some tips to help you pick the best one:

• Safety First: Choose a BPA-free teether made from non-toxic materials. Your baby’s health is the top priority.
• Easy to Hold: Babies have tiny hands (and sometimes questionable motor skills), so go for a teether they can grip easily.
• Textures Matter: Teethers with different textures provide extra relief and keep your baby’s interest.
• Cooling Feature: Many teethers can be chilled in the fridge (not the freezer!) for extra soothing power.

Pro tip: Avoid liquid-filled teethers that could leak if punctured, and always check the teether for signs of wear and tear.

When to Introduce a Teether

You can start giving your baby a teether as soon as they show signs of teething—usually around 3 to 4 months old. Even if no teeth have broken through yet, the teether can still help soothe their gums.

If your baby isn’t interested in the teether right away, don’t worry. Teething is a process, not a race. Keep offering the teether during playtime or when they seem fussy—it might just become their new favorite thing.

Parenting Hacks for Teething Survival

Teething isn’t just a milestone for your baby—it’s a test of your patience, creativity, and caffeine intake. Here are some expert-backed tips to make the process easier:

1. Keep It Clean: Babies love to drop things (and by “things,” I mean everything). Wash their teether regularly with warm, soapy water.
2. Mix It Up: If one teether isn’t doing the trick, try different shapes, textures, or even teething toys that double as rattles.
3. Offer Cold Comfort: Chilled (not frozen!) teethers can be lifesavers on especially tough days.
4. Massage Their Gums: Use a clean finger or a damp baby washcloth to gently rub their gums. Bonus: You’ll feel like a parenting pro.
5. Stay Calm: Teething isn’t forever (even if it feels like it). This too shall pass.

The Bottom Line

Giving your baby their first teether is a small but important step in their teething journey. Start around 3 to 4 months or when you notice those classic teething signs. Pick a safe, baby-friendly teether, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different options until you find the one they love.

And remember, you’re doing an amazing job. Teething might come with its challenges (and a lot of drool), but it’s also a reminder that your little one is growing and thriving. So hang in there—before you know it, they’ll flash you their first toothy grin, and it’ll all be worth it.

Happy teething! 

Got any tips or tricks for surviving teething? Share them in the comments below—because parenting is always better with a little teamwork!