What age is worst for teething?

When Is Teething at Its Worst?

Teething is one of the first major hurdles in a baby’s early life—and for parents, it can feel just as challenging. While most babies start showing signs of teething around 4 months, the real test often comes much later than many expect.

The first few teeth, usually the lower central incisors, tend to cause mild discomfort. But the real struggle often peaks between 25 and 33 months, when the large molars begin to emerge. These are the biggest baby teeth, and their size means more pressure, more pain, and more sleepless nights—for both baby and parent.

Teething pain typically flares up a few days before a tooth breaks through the gums and can last up to a week per tooth. During molar eruption, you might notice increased drooling, irritability, refusal to eat, or even disrupted sleep. Some toddlers may even develop a low-grade fever or rub their cheeks constantly due to referred pain.

While every child is different, molars are consistently reported as the most painful stage of teething. The reason? Their broad surface area and the fact that they’re pushing through thick gum tissue in the back of the mouth. By contrast, the earlier front teeth are smaller and usually cause less intense discomfort.

What helps? Cold teething rings, gentle gum massage, and over-the-counter pain relief (with pediatrician approval) can ease the worst of it. Distraction and extra cuddles go a long way, too.

Remember: while the molar stage is tough, it’s also temporary. Most children have their full set of 20 baby teeth by age 3, and the worst of the teething storm is behind them. The good news? After that, it’s all smooth sailing—until the first wiggly tooth appears.