When your twins or triplets start teething, parents often wonder what to expect. Twinfo is here to help you as you enter this next stage of your parenting journey.
What is teething?
Teething is the process by which an infant’s first teeth (known as baby teeth or primary teeth) erupt through the gums. It generally occurs between six and twelve months of age, but it can vary from child to child. While there is no one “right” order for teething to occur, most babies will start with their bottom front teeth, followed by their top front teeth. The rest of the baby teeth will usually erupt over the next few months. Although teething can be uncomfortable for babies, it is a normal and necessary part of their development.
Teething twins and triplets: When does teething begin?
Teething is one of the many milestones that babies reach as they grow and develop. While the exact timetable can vary, most babies start teething around 6 months old. The teething process can last for several months, with new teeth continuing to emerge until around 3 years old.
During this time, the first teeth to erupt are typically the lower front teeth, followed by the upper front teeth. After that, the rest of the baby teeth will gradually come in over the next few years. The back molars are usually the last teeth to appear, and they usually come in around age 3. Once all of the baby teeth have come in, they will start to fall out around age 6 to make way for the adult teeth. So, in a nutshell, the last teeth a baby gets are their back molars.
All babies will teeth at different times. There is no guarantee that your twins or triplets will cut teeth at the same time. This can be both a blessing and a curse. If you are ‘blessed’ with babies who find the teething process extremely painful, then to have them going through it at different times can be handy. However, it does also mean that if they cut teeth at different times then you could constantly have a teething baby!
What are the signs of teething?
There are several common signs that teething is beginning. One of the first signs may be increased drooling, as the baby’s saliva production increases. The gums may also appear red and inflamed, and the baby may chew on objects more frequently. As the teeth break through the gum line, the baby may experience discomfort or pain, which can lead to irritability and fussiness. Some babies may also have a low-grade fever. However, teething is different for every baby (including each multiple!), and not all babies will display all these symptoms. If you’re unsure whether your baby is teething, it’s always best to consult with your GP.
Teething twins and triplets: How can I help them?
While teething can be a trying time for both babies and parents, there are ways to help soothe the discomfort.
While there is no surefire way to fully eliminate the discomfort for your teething twins or triplets, there are several things you can do to help your baby through this phase, such as using teething toys or providing a cool teether to chew on (like Mizzie the Kangaroo below).
Cold items can also help to numb the gums. Place some frozen fruit into a mesh feeder and allow them to rub it on their sore gums themselves. Or freeze some breastmilk and make boob popsicles for them to rub on their gums.
Rubbing the gums gently with a clean finger can also be soothing.
If you find your babies are chewing on their cot rails, you can buy teething rail guards to fit most cots on Amazon HERE.
Teething twins or triplets can be tough.
Sometimes a simple change of scenery and some distraction can help. Pop them in the pram and head outside and go for a walk.
Otherwise, bunker down on the couch and just be prepared to give lots of cuddles! (Which isn’t a bad thing!).
Please note: If your baby is experiencing excessive drooling, teething pain, or fever, always talk to your doctor to rule out any other potential causes.
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