When do you use a teething ring for your baby?

You can give a teething ring as soon as your baby starts biting on things and can grab them. This is often when the first teeth are on their way. On average, milk teeth come through between 5 and 10 months. A chilled teething ring with a water-filled part soothes sensitive gums. Massage bumps give counter-pressure where the tooth is coming through.

When do the first teeth come through?

On average, milk teeth come through between 5 and 10 months. That's an average: some babies only get their first tooth after their first birthday, others much earlier. Usually the incisors in the lower jaw come first, then the canines and later the molars. Around the age of 3, the milk teeth are complete: 12 teeth and 8 molars.

How can you tell teeth are coming through?

You'll see a small bump on the gum, which may look red. Just before the tooth breaks through, you'll see a whitish haze. Coming through usually takes a few weeks to a month. Your baby often drools more, is weepy, has red cheeks and wants to bite on everything.

Does your baby have a fever, diarrhoea or seem really unwell? That's usually caused by something other than teething. If in doubt, contact your child health clinic or GP.

Why does biting help?

A tooth coming through creates pressure from the inside. Biting gives counter-pressure and that feels good. Cold also soothes the sensitive gums. Choose a shape your baby can hold: biting by themselves works better than you holding the ring.

Which teething ring suits which stage?

• Cooling: the Combi Teether has a hard part with massage bumps and a part filled with sterilised water. Half an hour in the fridge is enough.
• By tooth stage: the 3-in-1 teething ring has three parts: for the front teeth, the canines and the molars. Suitable from 3 months.
• Playing and biting: the Crown teething ring is suitable from 6 months. It has a cooling part in the wings and a soft flower for oral care.

View all teething rings and teething toys.

What else helps?

• Gently massage the gums with a clean finger.
• Give your baby something cool to chew on, such as a chilled teething ring.
• Sucking on a pacifier can comfort your baby.
• Unsure about pain relief? Ask your GP or pharmacist for advice.

To be honest: a teething ring eases the discomfort, but doesn't make teeth come through faster. A cold flannel works too, but warms up quickly. A water-filled teething ring stays cool for longer.

Safe use and cleaning

Always put a water-filled teething ring in the fridge, never in the freezer. Frozen material is too hard for the gums. Clean the ring with warm water and a mild washing-up liquid. Check it regularly for cracks and throw it away at the first sign of damage. Never hang a teething ring on a cord around your baby's neck and only give it under supervision.

The first tooth is through: what now?

Start brushing as soon as the first tooth is through. A silicone fingertip toothbrush is a nice way to start. Read more in brushing a baby's teeth.

Frequently asked questions

From when can you give a teething ring?

As soon as your baby starts biting on things and can grab them. The 3-in-1 teething ring is suitable from 3 months, the Crown teething ring from 6 months. Always check the age on the packaging.

Which teething ring works best for teething?

A chilled teething ring with a water-filled part and massage bumps. It combines cold with counter-pressure.

Can a teething ring go in the freezer?

No. A water-filled teething ring should go in the fridge for half an hour. Frozen material becomes too hard for the gums.