Teething

At 8 months old, Philip has hit another milestone — he’s got his bottom two front teeth! My little bunny!
I first noticed something sharp while breastfeeding, and for a few days before the teeth cut through, he was literally biting everything in sight. Thankfully, he didn’t have a fever or more serious symptoms — he was just a little fussier and crankier than usual. But imagine the pain babies must go through when their teeth are coming out!
I did give him 2.5 ml of Calpol once, and that was it.

Teething and Breastfeeding

Both Philip and I love breastfeeding, so I was a bit surprised when he started biting my nipples with those sharp little teeth. I started saying (as calmly as possible), “No biting.” I’m not sure if he understood at first, but I kept repeating it consistently.

If you’re going through the same thing, try not to yell, scream, or make exaggerated faces. Babies might either think it’s a game and keep doing it, or they might start a nursing strike, associating breastfeeding with a negative reaction.

After a few “bites,” Philip stopped biting during feeds. I think he figured out what to do with his new teeth. Plus, when he latches properly, his tongue usually covers his bottom teeth.

Dentist

Apparently, as soon as babies start teething, they should see a dentist for a check-up. At my 4-month health visitor appointment, I was advised to book an NHS dentist as soon as possible since babies need to be checked once they start teething.
Needless to say, it’s practically impossible to get an NHS dentist, so I went ahead and booked a private one.

Philip and I went to a really nice, colourful paediatric dental clinic in Marylebone. I had filled out an online questionnaire before the appointment. The clinic was decorated like a jungle, with children and parents popping out of every room.

The dentist greeted us warmly. Philip had just woken up from a contact nap in the baby carrier. They even had a “Welcome Philip” sign on the door — a lovely touch (if only Philip could read at 8.5 months!).

The dentist asked me many questions about my pregnancy, delivery, nutrition, breastfeeding, and weaning. As I had expected (and heard from other mamas), she commented on night feeds, saying, “Unfortunately, breast milk is very high in sugar, so you should stop breastfeeding at night soon.” I was prepared for this! I explained that breastfeeding at night does not cause problems with a baby’s teeth. In fact, breast milk alone is not considered cariogenic (cavity-causing) because it contains protective factors that help fight bacteria. Dental issues in young children are more often linked to sugary drinks, prolonged bottle use, or poor oral hygiene rather than breastfeeding. As long as proper dental care is practiced — wiping the gums and brushing once teeth appear — nighttime breastfeeding does not harm dental health.
She replied, “Yes, he’s still little, don’t worry about it… but you need to stop night feeds soon.” I just smiled and ignored that part.

Brushing Teeth

We also discussed how to brush Philip’s teeth. Use a small, soft-bristled baby toothbrush. Once the first teeth come in, you can use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). I had bought Aquafresh Milk Teeth (0–2 years), but the dentist mentioned that since Philip only has his bottom two teeth — and his tongue protects them while eating or nursing — toothpaste isn’t strictly necessary yet; it’s my choice.

When brushing, position your baby comfortably: sit them on your lap facing away from you, or lay them down with their head in your lap so you can see clearly. Brush in small, gentle circles on all tooth surfaces, and don’t forget to clean the surrounding gums, too. Brush twice a day, morning and evening.

The Actual Dental Check Up

The actual examination took about two minutes. I held Philip while the dentist and I brought our knees together; she laid a blanket on her lap, and I laid Philip down. She put on gloves, felt his gums, and told me that two more teeth would be coming soon. She demonstrated how to brush using a disposable baby toothbrush (which we got to keep). Then she took a photo of Philip’s first dental visit, gave us a sticker, and a little teddy bear keychain (which I didn’t give to Philip since it’s a choking hazard).

Not sure the whole thing was really worth £200… but there you go!