dental hygiene
Most babies get their tooth around 6 months old.. There isn’t a perfect time for it. Some babies start teething early as 4 months. Others don’t show a tooth until they are 12 months old. Both of these are completely normal.
Usually the bottom front teeth are the first to come in. You might notice your baby chewing on everything nearby before you see any sign of a tooth. A small white edge will appear on the gums. Then suddenly the tooth breaks through.
When Do Baby Teeth Usually Appear?
The first baby teeth often come between 6 and 12 months. After that more teeth slowly appear. By the time a child is 3 years old most have their full set of 20 baby teeth.
The First Tooth Can Be Unpredictable
Genetics can influence when teeth appear. So can the baby’s own development. If you had your tooth late your child might follow a similar pattern.. That’s not always the case.
• Around 6 months is a time for the first tooth but every baby is different.
• The lower front teeth usually come first. You’ll often see a little white ridge before the tooth fully emerges.
• No teeth at 12 months doesn’t mean there’s a problem. Some babies just take longer.
What Does Teething Look Like?
Teething can make the gums look swollen or tender. Your baby might drool more than usual. They may also spend a lot of time putting hands or toys into their mouth. This is normal.
Here’s something important. A high fever isn’t something to blame on teething. Diarrhoea or a baby who seems unwell should not be dismissed as teething. It needs attention.
Why Babies Want to Chew Everything
Pressure on the gums can feel soothing when a tooth is coming through. A clean chilled teething ring can help with that. Avoid cold items though. Things that are frozen solid can hurt gum tissue.
When Should You Start Brushing Baby Teeth?
Don’t wait until your child has teeth. Start brushing soon as the first tooth appears. Use a soft toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.
You’ll do most of the brushing at first. That’s okay. Babies aren’t known for their brushing skills.
As more teeth come in keep brushing twice a day. Make the routine consistent. That’s actually good with kids. The more predictable it is, the easier it becomes.
What If My Baby Has No Teeth Yet?
If your baby is nearing their birthday and still has no teeth don’t worry. Some babies just take their time. Still it’s an idea to mention it at a routine check-up. Especially if you have concerns about their growth.
Disclaimer
The information shared in our articles is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every smile is unique, and only a qualified dental professional can assess your individual oral health needs. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist.
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