The oral cavity undergoes significant changes during infancy, transitioning from toothless to fully erupted. The normal growth and development of the oral cavity, craniofacial region, and teeth, as well as the maintenance of their functions, are crucial for both oral and overall health throughout life. Promoting oral health in infants and toddlers supports balanced nutrition, fosters healthy eating habits, and ensures optimal overall growth and development. Additionally, early childhood is a critical period for language acquisition, and healthy, well-aligned primary teeth provide the physiological foundation for normal speech.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Tooth development begins in utero. At birth, baby teeth are already formed within the jawbones, covered by gums. Permanent teeth begin to form during the neonatal period. Most babies start teething between 4 and 10 months of age, with most primary teeth erupting by age three. The timing of tooth eruption varies widely among individuals and can be influenced by genetics, hormones, and diet. Some babies may show signs of teething as early as three months, while others may not start until a year or older.

Typical Teething Sequence:

  • Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth): Around 4-7 months
  • Upper central incisors (top front teeth): Around 8-12 months
  • Upper lateral incisors: Around 9-13 months
  • Lower lateral incisors: Around 10-16 months
  • Upper first molars: Around 13-19 months
  • Lower first molars: Around 14-18 months
  • Upper canines: Around 16-22 months (filling the gap between the upper lateral incisors and first molars)
  • Lower canines: Around 17-23 months (filling the gap between the lower lateral incisors and first molars)
  • Upper and lower second molars: Around 25-33 months

Teething Symptoms:

While some babies may experience teething with minimal discomfort, many show common symptoms such as:

  • Drooling (which can lead to a rash around the mouth)
  • Swollen and tender gums
  • Irritability
  • Biting
  • Fussy eating
  • Difficulty sleeping

A small percentage of babies may develop a low-grade fever. However, if your baby experiences a high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

Soothing Teething Discomfort

To help soothe your baby during teething, consider the following:

  • Offer something to chew on: Provide cooled teething rings or a damp washcloth for your baby to gnaw on.
  • Offer cold foods: Cold foods like applesauce or yogurt can help numb sore gums.
  • Massage your baby's gums: Gently massage your baby's gums with clean fingers to provide relief.
  • Use over-the-counter pain relievers: Consult your pediatrician about using acetaminophen to reduce pain and inflammation.

Delayed Teething

Tooth development is influenced by various factors, including genetics, diseases (such as hypothyroidism or rickets), and nutritional deficiencies. If your baby has no signs of teething by 13 months, consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.