Introduction

Teething is a natural developmental process in infants that typically begins around 4 to 7 months of age. During this period, babies experience the eruption of primary teeth through the gums, which is often accompanied by discomfort, irritability and changes in appetite.1 While teething is a natural phenomenon and not a disease, it can lead to temporary feeding challenges and concern for both parents and caregivers. Some babies experience little to no discomfort when teething. However, others may show signs of discomfort, including red, sore gums, fever, increased drooling, a strong urge to chew or gnaw on objects, being more irritable, and difficulty sleeping.² 

Understanding the impact of teething on a baby’s appetite and knowing how to manage feeding difficulties can help ensure that infants continue to receive the nutrition they need. In this article, we will explore the connection between teething and appetite changes, common feeding challenges during this phase, and practical ways to support a teething baby with soothing techniques and proper nutrition. 

Understanding teething

Teething is an exciting but sometimes challenging milestone in a baby’s development. This process typically starts between 6 and 12 months of age and continues until around 3 years old, when all 20 primary teeth have erupted. Babies are born with teeth beneath their gums, which gradually break through in a specific order, beginning with the lower front teeth (central incisors).³ This process may cause discomfort to babies, leading to swollen, tender gums, excessive drooling, irritability and a strong urge to chew on objects. These symptoms vary in intensity from baby to baby. Some may experience minimal discomfort, while others struggle with disrupted sleep, increased fussiness, and changes in feeding habits.⁴ 

Although teething is sometimes linked to fever, diarrhoea or rashes, there is no scientific evidence supporting this connection. A mild rise in temperature is common, but if a baby develops a fever above 38o°C (100.4oF), has persistent diarrhoea or shows signs of illness, it is essential to seek medical advice.⁵ 

Caring for emerging teeth is crucial for long-term oral health. Parents should begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste. Establishing good dental habits early helps prevent cavities and ensures a smooth transition to permanent teeth later in childhood. 

While teething can be challenging for both babies and caregivers, it is a temporary phase. With proper soothing techniques and oral care, babies will soon develop a full set of healthy teeth to aid in speech, nutrition and overall development.⁶ 

How teething affects appetite and feeding

Teething typically begins around six months of age and continues through toddlerhood, overlapping with key dietary transitions. Around this time, babies start moving from exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding to trying solid foods. However, the discomfort that comes with teething, sore gums, irritability, and an increased need to chew can make feeding more difficult. Some babies may refuse the breast, bottle, or certain solid foods due to gum pain, while others may prefer soft or cold foods that soothe their discomfort.⁷ 

While these changes in appetite are usually temporary, they can be frustrating for both babies and caregivers. Understanding why feeding behaviours shift during teething and knowing how to adjust meal routines can help ensure babies continue to get the nourishment they need during this phase.

Physical discomfort and its effects on eating

As teeth emerge through the gums, the surrounding tissue becomes swollen and tender. This can lead to increased drooling, gum irritation and pain, making infants reluctant to eat. Studies have shown that symptoms such as biting, drooling, and gum rubbing are among the strongest indicators of teething discomfort. Some infants may instinctively chew on objects to relieve the pain, but when it comes to eating, they may reject food due to heightened gum sensitivity.

Changes in appetite

During teething, many infants show a decreased appetite for solid foods, though their willingness to consume liquids such as breast milk or formula may remain unchanged. One study found that while teething was associated with a decreased appetite for solid foods, there was no significant change in appetite for liquids​.⁸ Parents often misinterpret this change as an indication of illness rather than a temporary response to discomfort.

Feeding challenges during teething

Some infants experience increased irritability and restlessness, further complicating mealtime. They may refuse to nurse or bottle-feed because sucking pressure intensifies gum pain. Others may start eating and then suddenly cry or push food away due to discomfort. Cold foods, such as chilled fruits or yoghurt, may be more soothing and better tolerated than warm or room-temperature meals.⁹ 

Teething versus illness

Although teething may cause mild temperature elevations, it does not lead to high fevers or serious illness. If an infant experiences a high fever (above 38.5°C), diarrhoea and severe feeding refusal, other medical causes should be considered.

Managing appetite changes during teething

Teething often disrupts an infant's normal eating patterns, causing frustration for both babies and caregivers. Understanding effective management strategies can help ensure adequate nutrition during this developmental stage.

Offering soothing foods

Cold and soft foods can help alleviate teething discomfort. Chilled fruits like banana slices, cucumber, and apples can provide relief while encouraging eating. Cold yoghurt or applesauce is also soothing. Avoiding overly hard foods that require excessive chewing can prevent further gum irritation.¹⁰

Encouraging hydration

Even if solid food intake decreases, maintaining hydration is essential. Breastfeeding or offering formula can provide the necessary nutrients. If an infant refuses the bottle or breast, parents can try different feeding positions to find the most comfortable one for their baby. Sipping water from a small cup or offering a cold teething-safe bottle nipple may also help​. 

Using safe teething remedies

Providing teething rings, cooled washcloths, and safe teething toys can help relieve gum discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used under pediatric guidance, but numbing gels should be avoided due to potential health risks.​¹¹ 

Monitoring for signs of illness

While teething can lead to mild symptoms such as gum irritation and reduced appetite, it is important to differentiate these from symptoms of infection or other health issues. If an infant refuses food for extended periods, loses weight or shows signs of dehydration (such as fewer wet diapers or dry lips), medical attention should be sought. 

When to seek medical advice

While teething is a normal developmental milestone, some symptoms may indicate a more serious issue requiring medical attention.

Recognising normal teething symptoms

Typical teething symptoms include:

• Increased drooling
• Mild gum swelling
• Increased biting or gum-rubbing
• Temporary appetite reduction
• Mild temperature elevation (below 38.5°C)

These symptoms usually resolve within a few days and can be managed with home remedies such as a cold teething ring, gentle gum massage, and pain relief under pediatric guidance.

Signs that require medical attention 

Parents  should seek medical advice if an infant experiences:

• High fever (Above 104°F) 
• Persistent refusal to eat or drink, which may lead to dehydration
• Severe diarrhoea or unusual rashes unrelated to teething¹² 

Conclusion

Teething is a normal part of a baby’s growth, but it can be a challenging time for both infants and caregivers. Many babies experience sore gums, fussiness, and changes in eating habits as their teeth begin to come in. While some may go through teething with little discomfort, others may struggle with pain, irritability, and difficulty feeding. Understanding these changes can help parents support their baby’s needs with patience and simple soothing techniques.

Offering cold or soft foods, keeping the baby hydrated, and adjusting meal times can help make feeding easier during teething. While it’s normal for babies to eat less at times, making sure they get enough breast milk or formula is important. Safe teething remedies like chilled teething rings, gentle gum massages,  and a clean, cold washcloth can provide comfort. Pain relievers may be used if needed, but only with a doctor’s advice.

It’s also important to know when a baby’s symptoms might not be related to teething. A slight rise in temperature, extra drooling and mild appetite changes are common, but a high fever, ongoing refusal to eat or drink signs of dehydration could mean something more serious. If a baby has symptoms that seem unusual or severe, parents should reach out to a doctor.

Teething is just a phase, and with the right care, babies will get through it and develop healthy teeth. By understanding what to expect and using simple ways to comfort their baby, parents can help make this stage easier and ensure good oral health for the future.