Teething in Acworth & Dallas, GA

Trusted Pediatric and Family Dental Care for Growing Smiles

What to Expect When Your Baby Starts Teething

Teething is the process where a baby’s primary (baby) teeth begin to emerge through the gums, often starting as early as 4 to 6 months of age. Most children will have their full set of 20 baby teeth by age 3.

As teeth push through the gums, it’s common for babies to drool more, chew on objects, and show signs of fussiness. While the experience can be uncomfortable, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Recognizing the signs early helps you respond with comfort and care.

Toddler grinning widely to show newly emerged baby teeth in a playful expression.
Smiling baby patient interacting with a caregiver during a pediatric dental visit.

Common Symptoms of Teething

Teething symptoms vary between babies, but here are some of the most common signs:

  • Swollen or sensitive gums

  • Drooling and chewing

  • Fussiness or disrupted sleep

  • Mild temperature increase

These symptoms are typically mild and temporary. However, if your child shows signs of high fever, diarrhea, or a rash that lasts more than a couple days, we recommend speaking with your pediatrician.

Safe Ways to Soothe Teething Pain at Home

Relief often comes from applying cold or gentle pressure to the gums. Here are some options we recommend:

  • Chilled (not frozen) teething rings

  • Cold, wet washcloths

  • Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger

  • Over-the-counter remedies (ask your pediatrician or dentist first)

Happy baby lying on their stomach and smiling, illustrating positive early oral health.

Gentle Support During Your Child’s Teething Journey

At Crossroads Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here for every stage of your child’s oral development—including the early days of teething. As new teeth emerge, babies and toddlers may experience soreness, irritability, or changes in eating and sleeping patterns.

Our team provides parents with guidance on how to soothe teething discomfort using safe, pediatric-approved methods. Whether it’s advice on teething toys, gum massage, or what signs to watch for, we’re committed to making this milestone as smooth and stress-free as possible—for both you and your child.

Frequently Asked Questions

We want you to feel comfortable, informed, and confident before your visit. Here are answers to some of the most common questions our patients ask.

Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months, though it can start earlier or later. The lower front teeth (central incisors) are typically the first to appear.

Avoid freezing teething toys as they can damage gums, using numbing gels without medical guidance, and teething necklaces or bracelets due to choking and strangulation risks.

Yes, teething discomfort can temporarily disrupt sleep and make some babies less interested in eating. These changes are usually short-lived and should resolve once the tooth erupts.

As soon as the first tooth appears! Use a soft, infant-sized toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). We’ll show you how during your child’s first dental visit.

Teething happens in phases and can continue until about age 3, when the last primary molars erupt. Some babies breeze through it, while others have more pronounced symptoms.

What Parents Are Saying about Crossroads Pediatric Dentistry

We just moved and this was our first experience with a new provider. Visit was quick (even with 3 kids), it’s very clean, the staff is extremely helpful, and they took time to talk to us through the visit (we weren’t rushed through questions or explanations). Highly recommend!

Kaitlin H.

They are great! Every single person was friendly and efficient. My daughter loved it!

Raven B.

We have spent A LOT of time and money trying to find the right dentist and we have finally found him at Crossroads Pediatric Dentistry!! Dr. Driggers is THE BEST!! He does great work and has such a pleasant demeanor. I really appreciate him taking the time to educate my kids on the importance of their dental care and how they can improve for next time. They're already asking when they get to go back to "the cool dentist" 😎

Kellie B.

We had a really great experience with our toddlers. They have games to play in the waiting area and everyone was incredibly friendly and great with the kids.

Safron S.

Feeling comfortable with a dentist means a lot, especially when it comes to our children. We appreciate the team at Crossroads for providing us with a trusting and friendly dental experience for our child!

Emily F.

Wonderful experience every visit! The doctor is incredibly calm, patient, and great with kids, making dental appointments stress-free. The staff is always friendly, welcoming, and helpful. We highly recommend this office to any family looking for a pediatric dentist.

Danielle B.

Amazing experience for my 1 & 4 year old boys. My oldest is even EXCITED to go back! Highly recommend! Clean, friendly, welcoming. 10/10

Elizabeth N.

We had a wonderful experience at Crossroads! The staff was warm, friendly, and knowledgeable, making us feel comfortable from the moment we arrived. The office itself was welcoming and engaging, and the kids absolutely loved it. We highly recommend Crossroads to anyone looking for a positive, family-friendly experience.

Kristina H.

Crossroads Pediatric Dentistry is a courteous, professional, child-friendly and clean pediatric dentist office. I have three children who are new patients and they have all had an enjoyable experience.

Julie C.

We couldn’t imagine going anywhere else! Seeing the same faces every time has made my little one so comfortable. He knows exactly what to expect and we throughly enjoy everyone at this practice. Thank you all so much for making this so easy as a parent.

Heavyn P.

Book an Appointment

Have questions about your child’s visit or treatment options? Reach out and we’ll be happy to help within 24 hours.

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