Your 51-Week-Old Baby

If your baby seems extra fussy, drooly or interested in chewing on everything lately, teething could be one reason. And with their first birthday around the corner, molars aren't too far off. These larger back teeth typically arrive after the first birthday and can feel a little different from the teeth your baby has gotten so far. I talked to Dr. Chris Klunk, a board-certified neonatologist at Pediatrix Medical Group, about when molars typically show up, what you might notice and safe ways to help with teething discomfort.

🚼 Baby’s Development 

When molars arrive (and why they're different)

Your baby has some new teeth on the horizon: their first molars.

Dr. Klunk explains the timeline: "The first molars usually erupt slightly after the first birthday, somewhere in the 13-to-19-month range, with the uppers often coming in before the lowers." So if your baby is just shy of one, their first molars may still be a few months away.

Molars are larger and farther back in the mouth than the front teeth that typically come in first, so you may notice some familiar teething behaviors when they start to erupt. Your baby might be fussier or droolier than usual, have a harder time sleeping or want to chew on anything they can get their hands on.

One important thing to know: not every symptom that pops up around this time is from teething. "Teething doesn't cause fevers, diarrhea or breathing problems," Dr. Klunk says, "and you should speak to your doctor if these types of symptoms arise." If you're noticing symptoms beyond typical teething discomfort, check in with your baby's healthcare provider rather than assuming new teeth are the cause.

Managing molar teething pain safely

When molars do start bothering your baby, there are a few simple ways to help ease the discomfort.

Dr. Klunk recommends starting with something cool to chew on: "Teething rings and cold, damp clothes are both great for chomping on." You can also try gently massaging your baby's gums with a clean finger. If your baby still seems uncomfortable, Dr. Klunk recommends talking with their healthcare provider about whether acetaminophen or ibuprofen is appropriate and how much to give.

There are also a few teething remedies to avoid. "Avoid topical creams and gels or other tablets that may contain substances known to be harmful to babies like benzocaine or lidocaine," Dr. Klunk says.

Teething jewelry, including amber necklaces and teething necklaces, is another one to skip. Dr. Klunk notes that "the FDA has received reports of serious harm related to choking and strangulation from teething jewelry." Necklaces and other jewelry can pose choking or strangulation risks if they break or get caught on something.

For everyday teething relief, keep it simple: something cool and safe to chew on or a gentle gum massage may be all your baby needs. If those aren't cutting it, your baby's healthcare provider can help you figure out other safe options.

🛍️ Shop This Stage

A few simple teething tools can come in handy as those first molars get closer. Here are a few options:

Itzy Ritzy 
Water-Filled Teether (3 Pack)

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Add to Babylist

Babylist$8.69

Amazon$7.49

Dr. Brown's 
Baby Teething Tubes, Bee and Snail

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Add to Babylist

target.com$8.49

👀 Looking Ahead

• 12-month checkup + your baby is officially a toddler: Your baby's big first-year checkup is coming up. Next week, we're covering what to expect at the appointment, why honey is finally safe to introduce and a recap of the biggest milestones from this first incredible year.