Check for swollen or tender gums

Swollen, red, or bulging gums are a direct sign that a tooth is pushing toward the surface. You may notice a visible bluish-white area on the gum ridge where the tooth is about to erupt, or the gums may appear puffy and inflamed in the area where the next tooth is expected.

What to Do

1. Wash your hands and gently run a clean finger along the baby's gum ridges to feel for hard bumps or swelling.
2. Apply gentle counter-pressure by rubbing the swollen area with a clean finger or cool, damp washcloth for 2-3 minutes. The pressure helps relieve discomfort.
3. Offer a chilled (not frozen) teething ring to provide soothing cold and pressure simultaneously.

Tips

• A small bluish lump on the gum (eruption cyst) is normal and typically resolves on its own when the tooth breaks through
• Do not use teething gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine -- the FDA warns these can cause serious side effects in children under 2, including methemoglobinemia
• The lower central incisors usually appear first, around 6-10 months, followed by the upper central incisors
• If gums are bleeding, severely swollen, or show signs of infection (pus, foul smell), contact your pediatrician