What Do Teething Gums Look Like?

Your baby’s gums are the foundation of their smile—even before teeth come in, it’s important to keep their gums healthy. When babies start teething, you may face a disruption in routine, increased fussiness, and more. Find out what baby’s gums may look like as they begin teething, what to expect, and how to comfort them through this crucial stage of development.

What are Teething Baby Gums?

There’s nothing sweeter than seeing your little one reveal their toothless grin. But once teething begins, you may be facing a crankier, fussier routine.   The appearance of your baby’s gums may also change.  According to the Cleveland Clinic, here’s how teething gums may appear:  

• Swollen: One of the initial signs of teething is swollen gums. This happens as the tooth begins to press against the gum tissues, creating pressure, which can lead to swollen areas along the gum line.  

• Red: Another major indicator of teething is gum redness. Pressure from the emerging tooth increases swelling and causes the gums to become redder in color.  

• Tender: Gum tenderness and sensitivity are quite common during the teething phase. However, it can add to your little one’s discomfort.  

• White spot: Right before a tooth erupts from the gumline, you may see a small white spot in that area of the gums. That’s the tip of your baby’s tooth making its way out.  

• Bumps: Your baby may have slightly raised bumps along their gum line as those baby teeth start to break through.  

Additional symptoms of teething include:  

• Slight increase in temperature 

• Excessive drooling 

• Restlessness and sleeplessness 

• Irritability and fussiness 

• Ear pulling 

• Chewing  

• Not wanting to feed 

• Teething rash 

What Teething Gums Look Like

Not sure your little one has started teething yet? Take a look at their gums and see if you notice any swelling, redness, raised bumps, or white spots—all telltale signs that your little one has hit that teething milestone!

Difference Between Normal Gums and Teething Gums

The main difference between teething gums vs. normal gums is their appearance. When baby’s gums are normal, they are smooth, and soft, and usually a shade of pink. Teething baby gums, on the other hand may have ridges or bumps, may appear fire-engine red, and are much more sensitive to the touch.  

Try soothing your baby’s teething gums by gently rubbing their gum line with a cold, damp washcloth, offering a chilled pacifier, bringing out a teether, or giving them cool water from a sippy cup if they’re 6 months or older. 

When to Seek Professional Help

Every baby goes through the teething phase, and with the right steps, you can offer teething comfort from home. However, there may be instances where you may want to reach out to your pediatric healthcare professional for additional guidance or recommendations.  

Signs you need to consult a medical professional include: 

• Increased irritability: If your baby begins to experience severe discomfort or irritability, it may be a sign of an underlying issue.  

• Fever: Mild fevers are common during teething, however, a high temperature can be cause for concern. If this occurs, see your pediatric healthcare provider right away.  

• Rash: Teething or drool rash is very common as baby teeth begin to emerge. However, if a rash persists or spreads, see your medical professional as soon as possible to rule out any other issues.  

• Diarrhea: Teething also occurs around the same time as your baby is being introduced to new, solid foods. Sometimes, this can cause diarrhea, if you’re concerned then a visit to your healthcare professional may be warranted.  

Additionally, make sure to see your child’s pediatric dental professional once their first tooth makes its debut or by their first birthday.  

When Do Baby Teeth Come In?

Every baby is different, and so is their teething timeline. Here’s when you can generally expect their baby, or deciduous teeth to start making their appearance.

Caring for Your Baby’s Teeth and Gums

• Gently clean a newborn baby’s gums with a damp washcloth to wipe away plaque bacteria after feeding to better prevent cavities. Brush with a fluoride-free baby training toothpaste to begin introducing healthy habits to your little one’s routine. 

• Start to get your little one used to having their teeth brushed around 4 to 6 months, or when teething begins. Opt for extra-soft bristles and apply a small amount of paste, roughly the size of a grain of rice. 

• Don’t put your baby to bed with a bottle of formula, milk or juice as they all contain sugar. This can increase the risk of developing cavities or tooth decay. 

• Babies are also susceptible to gingivitis, decay, and cavities. Use a “first visit by first birthday” strategy when it comes to seeing a pediatric dental professional for cleanings, personalized recommendations, and to check up on jaw formation. 

 As a parent or caregiver, it’s only natural that you may want to ease any discomfort they may experience during the teething process. Fortunately, there are several things you can try to soothe your little one. Additional teething comfort tips include:  

• Ease the pressure: Gently massage your baby’s teething gums with a clean finger. You can also try using a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush their gums and teeth. 

• Offer a teething ring: A chilled (not frozen) teether or teething ring can help provide some relief as your little one rubs the cool ridges along their gums.  

• Make use of a damp washcloth: Dab a clean washcloth with some cool water and let your baby gently chew on it, the texture can deliver soothing relief for their gum discomfort.  

• Distract them: A song, their favorite toy or book, or an exciting game can help take your little one’s mind off of their gum discomfort.  

• Consider diet: Cool, soft foods like chilled yogurt, can help soothe your baby’s teething gums. 

• Focus on oral hygiene: Keep your baby’s gums and emerging teeth clean. Gently wipe away any food residue or plaque with a damp washcloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush.  

• See your pediatric healthcare provider: Ask your pediatric healthcare professional about the use of over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen, to help ease the discomfort that teething gums may cause. 

What to Avoid When Baby is Teething

While there are many comfort tips out there to help soothe teething gums, there are things you should avoid giving your little one during this stage of development: 

• Teething gels: Avoid teething gels that contain benzocaine or lidocaine, as these could potentially be harmful.  

• Frozen teethers: Frozen teething rings can actually harm the gums.  

• Hard foods: It’s best to offer soft, cool foods to your little one rather than anything hard, as those can be a choking hazard.  

• Ice: Ice or frozen popsicles can harm the gumline.  

• Sugary drinks and foods: Avoid anything high in sugar to help keep your baby’s mouth healthy and strong.  

 Teething is both an exciting and challenging time for parents and children alike. However, it’s important to celebrate those first baby teeth as they begin to make up your little one’s smile. Be sure to care for their emerging teeth and teething gums to set the foundation for healthy oral care habits moving forward, so your baby’s smile stays healthy and strong for years to come.  

Kid’s Oral Care Recommendations

Complete Your Child’s Oral Care Routine  

• Brush your baby’s tender gums and teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush for baby ages 0-2 twice a day for two minutes each session  

• Switch to an electric toothbrush once your child is 3 to remove more plaque for healthy teeth and gums such as the Oral-B Kids Electric Toothbrush for kids ages 3+ featuring Disney and Marvel characters.   

• Encourage healthy habits with the Disney Magic Timer App which helps kids brush up to 2X longer.   

• Visit their dental professional twice a year for professional cleanings and checkups.  

 Equip your kids’ oral care routine with the toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash that’s right for them.