When Do Babies Get Teeth: A Parent’s Guide to First Teeth
Welcoming a new baby into the family brings a whirlwind of milestones, and teething is a major one. It’s an exciting yet challenging time as your little one begins to develop their first teeth. Understanding the teething process can help parents provide the right support and care during this tender stage.
At Chinook Mall Family Dental, our team is with you every step of the way. From your baby’s first tooth to braces, wisdom teeth removal, and more, our team of Calgary dentists specialize in family dentistry and are here to guide you through what to expect with your little one’s first tooth. Here’s what you need to know about when babies get their teeth and how you can help soothe their discomfort.
The Timeline: When do Babies Get Their Teeth?
While the timing can vary widely among different children, babies typically start teething around 6 months of age. However, it’s not uncommon for teething to begin as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. By the time they’re three years old, most children will have a full set of 20 primary teeth.
- 4 to 7 months: The first teeth to appear are usually the lower central incisors (the bottom front).
- 8 to 12 months: Next, the upper central incisors (the top front) make their appearance.
- 9 to 16 months: Following those, babies get the upper and lower lateral incisors (on either side of the central incisors).
- 13 to 19 months: The first molars (back teeth used for grinding food) come in.
- 16 to 23 months: The canines (the sharp, pointed teeth) emerge.
- 23 to 33 months: The second molars, behind the first set, come through last.
How Will I Know If My Baby Is Teething?
Teething can be a painful and uncomfortable time for both babies and parents, but recognizing the signs can help you manage this phase more effectively. Some common indicators of teething include drooling more than usual, a tendency to bite on hard objects, red and swollen gums, fussiness and crying, a slight increase in temperature (though not as high as a fever), and trouble sleeping. If you have any questions or need advice on how to spot the signs, don’t hesitate to talk to our Calgary dentists at Chinook Mall Family Dental Clinic. They are always ready to provide guidance and support to ensure your little one gets through this stage with as much comfort as possible.
How to Soothe Teething Pain?
There are several effective strategies to help alleviate your baby’s teething discomfort. Teething toys made from rubber or silicone can provide significant relief; however, it’s best to avoid teething rings filled with liquid. Chilled (not frozen) teething rings or a cold washcloth can also be very soothing for sore gums. Additionally, gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help ease the pain. If your baby is particularly irritable and seems to be in considerable distress, it may be worthwhile to consult your pediatrician or local dentist about using infant pain relievers to provide further comfort.
Next Steps After My Baby’s First Teeth
Once your baby starts getting their teeth, it’s important to begin oral hygiene practices, schedule regular dental checkups, and manage continued teething discomfort. As more teeth appear, you can introduce solid foods, which will aid in chewing development and speech clarity. Also, watch for biting behaviours and monitor teeth alignment and spacing. Regular visits to the dentist will help address any dental issues early and ensure your child’s teeth develop healthily.
Teething is a rite of passage that all parents and babies go through together. While it can be a challenging time, understanding the process and knowing how to help can make it a bit easier. Remember, every child is different, so teething timelines and experiences can vary. If you need personalized advice or support during this time, book your next dental appointment with our family dental experts at Chinook Mall Family Dental. Click here to fill out our contact us form or call us at 403.252.7711 to book your appointment!
