CarolinasDentist Blog

Teething Guide for New Parents

3 teething babies in their diapers smile as they play together on the floor with toys

Teething can be both an exciting and stressful dental milestone. While it’s amazing that your baby is growing and developing, it’s hard to see your child in pain during periods of teething. Below are some tips to help you through this process.

Common Signs of Teething

It can sometimes be confusing for parents when their happy baby is suddenly unusually sad and seemingly uncomfortable! Teething discomfort for your baby can begin well before their first tooth is visible, which typically happens between 6 months to 12 months old. Common signs that one or more baby teeth are beginning to erupt through their tenders include:

  • Waking up more than usual
  • Pulling on their ears
  • Crying and biting
  • Drooling
  • Refusing food
  • Irritability and fussiness

Home Remedies for a Teething Baby

While teething can be a tough time for both parents and babies alike, there are a few home remedies that can help relieve your baby’s discomfort:

  • Cold milk and purees
  • Refrigerated teething toys
  • Chilled fruits and/or veggies in a silicone or mesh feeder
  • Variety of different toys to distract them
  • Baby toothbrush for chewing
  • Chilled damp washcloth

When to See Your Child’s Healthcare Provider

You know your child better than anyone so if you believe that your child’s symptoms indicate that something else is going on, we recommend contacting their pediatrician. While general fussiness is normal for teething babies, symptoms like lethargy, fever, coughing, rashes, diarrhea, vomiting, and/or a runny nose indicate a different health concern.

Once your child gets their first tooth or around their first birthday, we recommend scheduling their first dental checkup with our team at CarolinasDentist so we can assess their teeth and gums. At this appointment, we can answer any questions you may have about your child’s dental health and how to care for your child’s growing smile. Please contact us today to schedule your child’s first visit! We look forward to hearing from you.

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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