Free UK Mainland Shipping On Orders £50+

Early Teething Signs in 3-Month-Old Babies | What to Expect

Early Teething Signs in Babies

Baby teething is a major development milestone for infants. While many babies start teething at around the age of six months, others might get it as young as three months. If you notice that your 3-month-old baby seems more irritable than usual and is continuously gnawing their hands, chances are you may be seeing teething begin in them.

In this blog, we’ll explore the early signs of teething in 3-month-old babies, how to ease their discomfort, and when to consult a doctor.

Can Babies Start Teething at 3 Months?

Yes, it can happen, though not very often. Each baby is unique. Some babies teethe at 3 months, while others don’t begin until after their first birthday. What matters is identifying the symptoms and being able to assist your baby during this uncomfortable period.

1. Drooling Excessively

One of the most immediate and clear indications of baby teething is excessive drooling. If your infant’s bib or onesie is perpetually wet, teething may be to blame. At this age, babies also start producing more saliva as their mouth matures, which is usually brought on by teething.

Tip: Keep a soft cloth nearby to gently wipe your baby’s chin. You can also use a teething bib to keep their clothes dry and avoid rashes.

2. Chewing on Hands and Toys

Babies at 3 months naturally love to explore things with their mouth, but if you notice excessive gnawing or chewing on hands, toys, or even your fingers, teething could be the cause.

Chewing will help to massage their sore gums and can give relief for the moment. Provide them with a soft teething ring or a cool, damp washcloth to chew on — both safe and calming.

3. Swollen or Red Gums

Teething infants might have red, swollen, or inflamed gums, particularly in the front where the first teeth usually come in. You may even see a tiny white bump just below the gum line — an indication that a tooth is preparing to erupt.

Tip: Use a clean finger to gently massage their gums. This may bring some comfort and allow you to sense if a tooth is about to erupt.

4. Irritability and Fussiness

It’s not fun for your little one when teething starts. Gum discomfort can irritate your 3-month-old, particularly during meal or nap times. If your baby is excessively cranky and there isn’t an apparent reason such as a dirty nappy or hunger, teething could be the cause.

5. Trouble Sleeping

Just like us, babies can’t sleep if they’re not comfortable. If your baby has suddenly become more wakeful during the night or is having trouble sleeping, teething pain could be the cause. Rocking them gently, white noise, or a little extra cuddle can calm them down.

6. Pulling Ears or Rubbing Cheeks

Some infants pull their ears or massage their cheeks while teething. This is because the discomfort from their gums has a tendency to radiate into surrounding areas, such as their ears or jaw. Although it can be common baby teething behaviour, always pay attention to evidence of ear infection, including fever or fluid.

7. Mild Temperature (But Not a Fever)

As per the NHS and paediatricians, teething can lead to a mild increase in body temperature but not fever. If your baby develops a high fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F), it’s not caused by teething and will need to be examined by a doctor.

8. Eating Habits

Baby teething can also influence your baby’s feeding schedule. Some babies will crave nursing or bottle-feeding more frequently for comfort, while other babies will reject the bottle or breast because of pain in the gums. If your baby’s eating patterns suddenly change, teething may be the culprit.

How to Comfort a Teething 3-Month-Old Infant

These are some safe and soothing methods to calm your baby:

  • Gum massage: Rub their gums gently with a clean finger.
  • Teething toys: Provide a soft or water-filled teether that may be chilled (though not frozen).
  • Cold cloth: A clean cool washcloth will be comforting to chew on.
  • Extra cuddles and love: Sometimes, all your baby needs is to be held and calmed down.

Babymore has a well-curated blog written just for you to help you learn natural remedies to lessen your baby’s teething pain. You might want to grab all the information we have got to share.

When to See a Doctor

Although teething is uncomfortable, it shouldn’t make your baby very ill. Talk to your doctor if your 3-month-old:

  • Has a high temperature (over 38°C)
  • Is being sick or has diarrhoea
  • Is crying all the time or appears in a lot of pain
  • Won’t eat for more than a few hours
  • Has a spreading or worsening rash

Final Thoughts

Baby teething at 3 months can be a shock, but it’s completely normal for some babies. By catching the signs early — from chewing and drooling to fussiness and swelling gums — you can make your little one feel more comfortable during this new stage.

Be patient, keep their gums comfortable, and remember that all babies experience this at their own pace. Before you know it, that very first cute little tooth will make its big debut!

You may also like...

Is Diarrhea Normal During Teething? | Causes & When to Worry

How Motherhood Changes Your Identity & How to Find Yourself Again

Eco-Friendly Picks for Your Baby’s Nursery & Travel Essentials

magnifierchevron-down linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram