Also known as: teething discomfort, baby teething pain, sore gums from teething, tender erupting gums, painful teething, eruption discomfort

Teething pain in babies and toddlers is usually a mild, temporary discomfort that happens as primary teeth begin to push through the gums. Children may drool more, chew on fingers or toys, rub their gums, or seem fussier than usual, especially around naps, bedtime, or feedings. The gums around an erupting tooth can look swollen or feel tender, and some children may prefer softer foods for a few days while a tooth is coming in.

In many cases, teething discomfort improves on its own once the tooth breaks through. However, not all mouth pain in young children is caused by teething. Ongoing pain, significant swelling, feeding difficulty, or symptoms that seem more intense than typical teething can point to another issue that deserves a closer look. Early evaluation can help confirm whether the discomfort is part of normal tooth eruption or something else that needs treatment.

Possible Causes of Teething Pain

Teething pain is commonly associated with:

  • Normal eruption of baby teeth – As primary teeth move upward through the gums, they can create temporary pressure, tenderness, and mild soreness in the surrounding tissue.

  • Swollen or irritated gum tissue – The gum over an erupting tooth may look puffy or feel tender as the tooth gets closer to breaking through the surface.

  • Pressure from a tooth that is about to emerge – Some children seem uncomfortable for a short time before a tooth appears, especially when eating, chewing, or rubbing the area.

  • Extra irritation from chewing on objects – Babies and toddlers often chew on fingers, toys, or pacifiers to relieve teething pressure, which can sometimes make already tender gums feel more irritated.

  • Another dental issue mistaken for teething – Mouth sores, gum irritation, early decay, or infection can sometimes be confused with teething discomfort, especially when symptoms seem more severe than expected.

Treatments for Teething Pain

Depending on the cause of teething pain, treatment may include:

  • Well-Baby Exams – A well-baby exam can help confirm whether your child’s discomfort matches normal teething or whether another issue may be causing the pain. It also gives parents guidance on eruption patterns, oral development, and how to keep new teeth healthy from the start.
  • Exams & Cleanings – A dental exam allows the dentist to check erupting teeth, irritated gums, and any other symptoms that may not be related to teething. This can be especially helpful when discomfort lasts longer than expected or seems more intense than typical eruption soreness.
  • Emergency Dentistry – If a child has significant swelling, visible injury, or symptoms that seem more severe than normal teething, an emergency dental visit may be the best way to identify the cause quickly and provide appropriate care.

When to See a Dentist

Consider scheduling an appointment if your child:

  • Has gum pain that seems severe or lasts longer than expected
  • Has swelling, bleeding, or trouble feeding
  • Seems uncomfortable but no tooth is erupting or a tooth seems delayed
  • Has symptoms that feel worse than typical teething

Related Symptoms

Concerned About Teething Pain?

Teething pain is often a sign that something needs attention. We’d love to evaluate your child’s symptoms and make their visit comfortable, positive, and stress-free. Schedule an appointment today and get the answers you need.