Teething is one of the most anticipated milestones in a baby’s early development. As parents, we eagerly await the appearance of those first little pearly whites, but the timing of when do babies start teething can vary widely. Understanding when baby teeth come in, the signs of teething, and what to expect during the process can help you navigate this phase with confidence. So, when do babies get teeth, and how can you support them through this significant stage?

Understanding Baby Teeth

Before diving into the timing of teething, it’s important to understand what baby teeth are and their role in your child’s development. Baby teeth, also called primary teeth or milk teeth, are the first set of teeth that appear in infancy. These teeth are critical because they play a role in helping your baby chew food, develop speech, and create space for their adult teeth.

The process of teething is both exciting and essential. Baby teeth are softer and more prone to cavities than adult teeth, but they’re designed to help children learn essential skills such as eating and speaking. These teeth are also placeholders for permanent teeth, guiding their growth and alignment. Your child’s first set of teeth typically includes 20 primary teeth, which will eventually fall out as adult teeth emerge.

By the time children reach adulthood, they will have a full set of 32 permanent teeth, but before that, the journey starts with baby teeth. It’s essential for parents to care for baby teeth because they serve an important function in both the child’s overall development and the growth of their permanent teeth.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

The question on every parent’s mind is, "when do babies start teething?" While the age at which teething begins can vary from one child to another, it generally starts around the 6-month mark. However, it’s perfectly normal for babies to start teething anywhere between 4 and 7 months of age. In some cases, teething may start even earlier or later.

Teething is a gradual process, and each baby experiences it differently. Some babies may cut their first tooth as early as 4 months, while others may not show any signs of teething until after their first birthday. This variability is completely normal and should not be a cause for concern unless the delay extends well beyond the age of 18 months.

If you're wondering when do babies get teeth and you haven’t seen any action by the 6-8 month mark, don’t worry. Some babies are simply slower to develop their first set of teeth, and they will eventually appear when the time is right for your child.

The Teething Timeline: When Do Baby Teeth Come In?

Understanding when do baby teeth come in is helpful for tracking your baby’s development. Most babies will follow a predictable timeline for the appearance of their first teeth. Here’s an overview of the typical timeline for baby teeth eruption:

When Do Babies Get Teeth: Lower Central Incisors (Bottom Front Teeth) – 6 to 10 months

The first teeth to appear are usually the lower central incisors, often emerging around 6 months. These are the two bottom front teeth that your baby will likely get first. This is often the most exciting moment for parents, as it's the first sign that their baby is growing up.

These teeth are important for early chewing and are typically the most visible of all the baby teeth. They also help your baby learn to form sounds and words, which is critical for speech development.

When Do Babies Get Teeth: Upper Central Incisors (Top Front Teeth) – 8 to 12 months

After the bottom front teeth, the top central incisors typically follow. These usually appear between 8 and 12 months of age. The appearance of these teeth can often be accompanied by increased drooling and irritability.

The upper central incisors play an essential role in helping your baby break down food. They are also critical for the development of certain speech sounds, which is why they are an exciting milestone in both chewing and language development.

When Do Babies Get Teeth: Upper Lateral Incisors (Side Front Teeth) – 9 to 13 months

Next, the upper lateral incisors, or the teeth on either side of the central incisors, typically come in. These usually emerge between 9 and 13 months.

By the time the upper lateral incisors appear, your baby is well on their way to developing a more complete set of teeth, which makes eating more comfortable and efficient. They’re also vital for speech clarity as they help in forming words.

When Do Babies Get Teeth: Lower Lateral Incisors – 10 to 16 months

Following the top lateral incisors, the lower lateral incisors (located next to the bottom front teeth) appear. These usually come in between 10 and 16 months.

The appearance of the lower lateral incisors helps balance your baby’s smile and further facilitates chewing. As these teeth emerge, many babies begin eating a wider variety of foods, including textured solids that require more effort to chew.

When Do Babies Get Teeth: First Molars – 13 to 19 months

After the incisors, your baby’s first molars emerge. These are the flat teeth at the back of your baby’s mouth used for chewing food. First molars typically come in between 13 and 19 months.

These teeth are necessary for grinding and breaking down food. Once these teeth come in, your baby will likely begin eating more solid foods, and teething symptoms might be more intense due to the size and position of the molars.

When Do Babies Get Teeth: Canine Teeth (Cuspids) – 16 to 23 months

Canine teeth, also known as cuspids, appear next. These are the pointy teeth located just next to the lateral incisors. They usually emerge between 16 and 23 months.

Canines are essential for tearing food and are often more uncomfortable for babies to cut through because of their sharpness. However, they are just as important as other teeth for eating and speaking.

When Do Babies Get Teeth: Second Molars – 23 to 33 months

Finally, the second molars, which are the teeth located furthest back in your baby’s mouth, make their appearance. These typically come in between 23 and 33 months of age.

By the time the second molars appear, your baby will have a nearly full set of teeth. The second molars are especially crucial for later-stage chewing and help prepare your child for the transition to a more grown-up diet.

Signs and Symptoms of Teething

As a parent, it can be difficult to know exactly when do babies start teething or when do baby teeth come in. Fortunately, there are some common signs that indicate your little one is teething. These include:

• Excessive drooling: Increased saliva production is a common sign that your baby is teething. As your baby’s gums prepare for teeth to break through, you may notice them drooling more than usual.
• Chewing on objects: Babies often chew on baby toys, their hands, or other objects to help relieve the pressure from emerging teeth. Chewing helps massage the gums, which may ease some of the discomfort they’re feeling.
• Irritability: Teething can cause discomfort, making babies fussier or more irritable than usual. If your baby is unusually upset, it could be a sign that teething is underway.
• Swollen or tender gums: Your baby’s gums may appear red, swollen, or even slightly bruised where the tooth is about to break through. Gentle massage of the gums with a clean finger can offer relief.
• Sleep disturbances: The discomfort of teething may interfere with your baby’s sleep. They might wake up more frequently at night, crying or fussing due to the pain.
• Loss of appetite: Babies may experience a decreased appetite due to sore gums, especially when eating solid foods. You may notice they prefer liquids or softer foods during teething.

Teething Pain Relief: How to Comfort Your Baby

While teething is a natural process, it can be uncomfortable for your baby. As parents, there are several ways you can help soothe your baby’s discomfort during this stage:

• Teething rings: Chilled (not frozen) teething rings can provide relief. The cold helps numb the gums and ease pain. Be sure to choose a non-toxic teething ring.
• Cold washcloth: A clean, chilled washcloth can be a great alternative to a teething ring. Let your baby chew on it for relief.
• Teething gels: Consult your pediatrician before using any topical teething gels or creams, as some may contain ingredients that aren't safe for babies. If approved, a small amount can be applied to the gums for temporary relief.
• Pain relief medication: In some cases, your pediatrician may recommend a pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) for severe discomfort. Always follow dosing instructions carefully and consult your pediatrician first.

Common Concerns About Baby Teeth

Many parents worry about when do baby teeth come in and whether their child is following the "typical" teething timeline. While variations in the timing of teething are common, there are some red flags that might warrant a visit to the pediatrician or pediatric dentist:

Delayed teething: If your baby hasn’t started teething by 18 months, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying health issues.

Premature tooth eruption: Some babies may develop teeth before 4 months. While this is less common, it’s usually not a cause for concern.

Irregular teething patterns: If your baby’s teeth appear out of order (for example, molars before incisors), it might be worth checking with your pediatric dentist to ensure everything is progressing as it should.

The Importance of Baby Teeth

Although baby teeth are temporary and eventually fall out, they are incredibly important for your child’s overall health, development, and comfort. These early teeth not only help with essential functions like chewing and eating but also play a crucial role in speech development. As your child learns to pronounce words and form sounds, their baby teeth help guide this process, making them integral to language acquisition. Additionally, baby teeth hold space in the gums for the permanent adult teeth that will eventually grow in.

Maintaining proper oral hygiene from an early age is essential for your child’s long-term dental health. While baby teeth are more susceptible to cavities and decay, keeping them clean can prevent early dental issues and instill good habits that last a lifetime. Begin brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as they emerge, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small smear of fluoride toothpaste. Regular brushing, along with healthy dietary habits, ensures that baby teeth stay healthy until they naturally fall out, which helps create a strong foundation for the adult teeth that will take their place.

When Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?

As your child grows, baby teeth eventually begin to fall out, making room for permanent teeth. This process usually starts around age 6 and continues until around age 12, with the first teeth to fall out typically being the lower central incisors. The loss of baby teeth marks another significant milestone in your child’s development, signaling the transition to adulthood.

Conclusion: The Journey of Baby Teeth

So, when do baby teeth come in? It can vary, but most babies will get their first teeth around 6 months of age, with the full set of 20 baby teeth typically in place by age 3. The teething process can be challenging for both babies and parents, but with a little understanding and preparation, you can help your baby navigate this exciting milestone.

By keeping track of your baby’s teething timeline, recognizing the signs of teething, and knowing when to seek help, you’ll ensure that your child has a positive experience as they grow and develop their first set of teeth. So, while every baby’s journey is different, knowing what to expect can ease the process and make the road ahead a little smoother for everyone.