There’s a first time for everything – your baby’s first word, first steps, and, of course, their first tooth. Teething is a significant milestone in your little one’s early life, often met with equal parts excitement and apprehension. As a parent, you’re bound to have a host of questions: When do babies start teething? What are the signs? How can I help my bub through this? When do baby teeth fall out? These moments matter.
Let’s take a look at the world of teething, providing you with all the essential information to go through your child’s journey with confidence.
So, When Does Teething Start?
The journey to a full smile may begin earlier than you might think. Typically, babies start teething around six months of age. However, it’s not uncommon for some bubs to start showing signs of teething as early as three months or as late as twelve months.
You might be wondering, how early can babies start teething? It’s rare, but some infants are born with one or two teeth, known as natal teeth. More commonly, you may notice the first signs of teething closer to the three-month mark, with the lower front teeth, or incisors, coming through first. This is followed by the upper front teeth. A handy way to keep track of this progression is through a baby teeth chart, which outlines the typical order and age range for each new tooth.
Every child is unique, and so is their teething timeline. Some babies breeze through it with barely a whimper, while others might find it a more challenging experience. Knowing what to expect can make this developmental stage easier for both you and your baby.
Early Signs of Teething
Every baby’s teething journey is different, but there are common early signs of teething that indicate your little one’s teeth are on the way. Being familiar with these signs can help you provide the right support and comfort.
Drooling
It’s time to break out the bibs! Increased drooling is often one of the first signs of teething. While it’s a normal part of development, keep an eye on your baby’s chin to prevent skin irritation.
Gum Rubbing or Biting
Your bub might start gnawing or rubbing their gums. This is their way of easing the discomfort. Offering a cool (not frozen), clean teething ring can be a safe way for them to apply pressure to their gums. Avoid teething items that are too hard or have liquid inside, as these can pose a safety risk.
Irritability or Fussiness
Teething can be uncomfortable, and your usually cheerful baby might become a bit grumpy or irritable. Extra cuddles and patience are the best medicine here.
Changes in Eating and Sleeping Patterns
The discomfort of teething might disrupt your baby’s usual routines. They might fuss during feedings or wake up more often at night. If your baby is already eating solids, cold foods like yoghurt or a chilled spoon can be soothing.
Slight Temperature Increase
Some babies might have a slight increase in temperature when teething. However, a high fever is not a normal teething symptom and should prompt a visit to your healthcare provider.
Recognising these signs of teething can help you better understand and respond to your baby’s needs during this developmental stage.
Avoid any remedies that could be harmful, such as teething tablets, gels with benzocaine, or amber teething necklaces. Always consult with your paediatrician or dentist if you’re unsure about a particular teething remedy. And remember that while teething can be uncomfortable, it’s a natural part of growth and development – you and your baby will get through this!
Understanding the Baby Teeth Chart
A baby teething chart is an incredibly useful tool for parents. It helps you track the development of your child’s teeth and understand what to expect at each stage of their teething journey.
The First Teeth
The lower central incisors are usually the first to appear, typically around 6 to 10 months. Shortly after, the upper central incisors make their entrance, usually between 8 to 12 months.
Progression
Following the incisors, the upper and lower lateral incisors (the teeth next to the central incisors) usually emerge. This occurs around 9 to 13 months for the upper and 10 to 16 months for the lower lateral incisors.
The Molars and Canines
Between 13 to 19 months, you can expect the first molars to appear, providing a new surface for chewing. The canines then fill in the gaps, usually between 16 to 22 months.
Second Molars
The final set of baby teeth to appear are the second molars, located at the back of the mouth. These usually emerge between 25 to 33 months.
By the time your child is three years old, they will likely have a full set of 20 baby teeth. It’s important to note that while this chart provides a general timeline, some bubs might experience a slightly different teething schedule – and that’s perfectly normal.
Understanding the baby teeth chart can give you a clearer picture of your child’s dental development and prepare you for what’s next in their teething journey. It’s also a great tool to use when discussing your child’s teeth with your paediatric dentist.
When to See a Dentist
Teething is a natural process, but there are certain instances where a visit to the dentist is advisable.
The Australian Dental Association recommends that the first dental visit should occur when the first tooth becomes visible or when the child reaches their first birthday, whichever comes first. This visit is more about getting your baby familiar with the dentist and catching any early issues. After the first visit, regular check-ups every six months can help keep your baby’s teeth healthy. These visits allow the dentist to monitor growth and development, provide preventive care, and address any concerns you may have.
You should consult with your dentist if your baby seems to be in extreme discomfort, if teething appears to be delayed, or if you notice any signs of tooth decay – like brown or white spots on the teeth, bad breath, or swollen gums. Your dentist can check for any underlying problems and offer advice.
Your Children’s Dentist Warwick & Stanthrope
Teething is an exciting yet challenging time in your baby’s life. Understanding when babies start teething, recognising the signs, and knowing how to care for their teeth can make this phase smoother for both you and your child. At Granite Belt Dental, we’re here to support you through every milestone of your child’s oral health journey.
Whether it’s your baby’s first tooth or their first dental visit, our team is dedicated to providing the care and advice you need. Feel free to reach out to us for any teething concerns or to schedule your baby’s dental visit. Together, let’s ensure your little one’s smile stays bright and healthy from the very start!