Teething advice in Huntingdon.
Teething is rough on babies and parents alike, and it's not always obvious what will help. Our pharmacist can suggest ways to ease your baby's discomfort, tell you which products are suitable for their age, and when something else might be going on.
What is teething?
Teething is when a baby's first teeth begin to come through the gums. Most babies start teething at around 6 months, although it can happen earlier or later.
Some babies have little discomfort, while others may be unsettled for a few days as a tooth appears.
No appointment needed — come in during opening hours and ask for the pharmacist.
Prefer a set time? Call and we'll book you in with the pharmacist.
Open Mon–Fri 08:45–18:00 (closed 13:00–14:00).
Common signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Sore, red or tender gums where a tooth is coming through
- More dribbling than usual
- Chewing or gnawing on fingers, toys or other objects
- One flushed cheek
- A mild facial rash caused by dribbling
- Rubbing the ear
- Being more irritable or fretful than usual
- Difficulty sleeping
- A slightly raised temperature, but below 38°C
Important: Not every baby will have these symptoms. Diarrhoea and a high temperature are not recognised signs of teething. If your baby seems unwell, do not assume it is caused by teething.
What causes teething?
Teething happens naturally as a baby's milk teeth develop and move through the gums.
The first teeth often appear around 6 months of age.
The lower front teeth commonly appear first, followed by the upper front teeth and then the other milk teeth over the following months.
Most children have all 20 milk teeth by around 2–3 years of age.
How can it be prevented?
Teething itself cannot be prevented, but you can help protect your baby's developing teeth and gums.
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, using a baby toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.
Brush twice daily, including before bedtime.
Avoid sugary foods and drinks, and never dip a dummy in sugar or honey.
Wipe away dribble gently to prevent facial irritation.
Arrange dental care for your baby and seek advice if you notice any concerns with their teeth or gums.
When should someone seek medical help?
Most babies get through teething with a few days of fussiness, but some signs need medical advice.
Get urgent medical advice
Contact a GP or NHS 111 if your baby has:
- A temperature of 38°C or higher and is under 3 months old
- A temperature of 39°C or higher at 3–6 months
- Signs of dehydration, unusual drowsiness or worsening symptoms
Call 999 in an emergency
Get emergency help if your baby:
- Has severe difficulty breathing
- Is difficult to wake
- Has blue or grey skin or lips
- Appears seriously unwell
Speak to your GP or health visitor
Ask for advice if:
- Your baby seems unusually distressed or the symptoms are not improving
- Your baby has diarrhoea, vomiting or other symptoms that you think may be more than teething
- Your baby is feeding less than usual or you are concerned about their health
Remember: Teething is a normal part of development. A chilled teething ring, gentle gum massage and comfort can help. Do not assume a fever or diarrhoea is caused by teething.
NHS — Teething NHS — Tips for helping your teething babyCommon questions
Can a pharmacist help with teething?
Yes. Our pharmacist can suggest ways to ease your baby's discomfort, tell you which products are suitable for their age, and help you judge whether something else might be going on. If your baby needs to be seen, we'll point you to your GP, health visitor or urgent care.
Are teething gels or tablets safe?
Check before you buy. There's little evidence that teething gels work, and some contain a local anaesthetic. Homeopathic teething tablets and powders aren't recommended. Ask our pharmacist what's suitable for your baby's age.
What can I do at home to help?
A chilled teething ring or gently rubbing the gums with a clean finger can soothe sore gums. Never put a teething ring in the freezer, and never tie one around your baby's neck.
Is a fever part of teething?
A slightly raised temperature below 38°C can happen. Diarrhoea and a high temperature are not recognised signs of teething, so if your baby seems unwell, don't assume it's teething — get advice.
When should I start brushing my baby's teeth?
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, using a baby toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, twice a day including before bedtime. You'll also need to register your baby with a dentist once their teeth start coming through.
How much does it cost?
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist can treat you under the scheme, any NHS prescription charge that applies is the same as it would be at your GP — and free if you don't normally pay for prescriptions.
Do I need an appointment?
No — walk-ins are welcome during opening hours. If you'd rather have a set time, call us on 01480 425412 and we'll schedule one for you.
Is the consultation private?
Yes. Any consultation takes place in our private consultation room, and anything you discuss stays confidential.
Other minor ailments we can help with
Constipation
Advice and NHS treatment for constipation from our pharmacist — walk in or call to arrange a time.
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Advice and NHS help for cold symptoms from our pharmacist — walk in or call to arrange a time.
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Advice and NHS treatment for conjunctivitis (pink eye) from our pharmacist — walk in or call to arrange a time.
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Walk in and ask for the pharmacist, or call us to arrange a time — free NHS advice and treatment under the Minor Ailments Scheme.