Teething and Bleeding: Is It Common?
I am a first-time mother with a 7.5-month-old who is currently experiencing the emergence of his first two lower teeth. I've observed some bleeding in his mouth; on one occasion, there was a noticeable amount, though typically I see just small spots or flecks of blood around the area of the emerging teeth. Is this a typical occurrence? Interestingly, his twin brother hasn’t experienced any bleeding at all while teething. Furthermore, I had the impression that most of the discomfort should wane once the teeth begin to show, yet my little one appears to be in significant pain, and his teeth haven’t completely broken through the gum line yet. I am quite worried, being a first-time mom. Thank you for any guidance you can provide!
Answers (1)
8/22/2025, 10:04:06 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to be concerned about your baby's teething experience, especially as a first-time mother. Bleeding can occur during teething, but let’s break down what you might be seeing and experiencing.
Main Points:
- Some bleeding during teething can be normal, particularly if the gums are irritated or if the teeth are pushing through.
- Your baby’s level of discomfort can vary significantly; not all babies will show the same signs of pain or bleeding.
- Keep an eye on the situation and take steps to manage your baby's comfort.
Explanation: Teething typically starts around six months and can lead to the emergence of baby teeth through the gums. When this occurs, it can sometimes cause small amounts of bleeding due to the gums being sensitive or swollen as the teeth push through. It's not unusual for one baby to show more signs of discomfort or bleeding than another, even among siblings.
If your baby is still showing significant pain with the teeth not completely broken through, this can be a normal part of teething, as the process varies for each child. Teething symptoms can include increased drooling, fussiness, and changes in sleeping and eating patterns.
Next Steps:
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Monitor the Bleeding: Small spots of blood can be common, but if you see a large amount of blood or ongoing bleeding, it would be worthwhile to consult a pediatrician to ensure there are no other underlying issues.
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Comfort Measures: Consider using cold teething rings, wet washcloths chilled in the fridge, or gentle gum massage with a clean finger to help soothe the discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relief (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen) can be used if recommended by your child's healthcare provider.
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Oral Hygiene: Make sure to gently clean your baby’s mouth and gums regularly to help with any irritation. A soft, damp cloth after feeding can be helpful.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on his overall well-being. If he seems excessively fussy or if you have any concerns about his health or bleeding, make a note of these symptoms and consider discussing them with a healthcare professional.
Lastly, take some deep breaths—teething is a challenging phase but it is temporary. You're doing a great job by seeking information and supporting your baby through this process!
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