Table of Contents

1. The Age That Babies Start Getting Teeth
2. Signs of Teething
3. Stages of Teeth Development
4. Taking Care of Baby Teeth
5. When Should a Baby Go to the Dentist?
6. Resources on Oral Health and Babies

Among all of the exciting “firsts” you share with your baby is the thrilling first tooth. While the timing and process of getting their first teeth is different for each baby, having a basic understanding of what age babies get teeth, the teething process, and how to care for their first teeth can help you handle this experience better as well as establish the beginnings of a lifetime of good oral health for your child.

The Age That Babies Start Getting Teeth

Babies typically begin teething around 6 months of age, but it’s normal for the first tooth to appear anywhere between 3 to 14 months. Teething is a natural part of a baby’s growth and development. The process of teething actually refers to the teeth breaking through the gums, which can be a source of discomfort for your baby. Some babies may show no signs of discomfort, while others may have a more challenging time. While the age at which babies start teething can vary, the signs and symptoms of teething are relatively universal.

Signs of Teething

Look out for these common signs of teething:

• Increased drooling
• Increased chewing on objects
• Irritability or fussiness
• Sore or tender gums
• Slight increase in temperature (but not above 101°F)

Stages of Teeth Development

While the age that babies get teeth ranges, the order that baby teeth come in follows a typical pattern:

1. Two Bottom Front Teeth First

The first teeth to appear are usually the lower central incisors, which are the two bottom front teeth. This typically occurs around 6 months of age.

2. Front Upper Teeth

After the lower incisors, the upper central incisors follow, with the upper lateral incisors coming in shortly after. This fills in that adorable front-toothed smile most babies will have by their first birthday.

3. Back Molars

The first molars usually make their appearance between 13 to 19 months. These are important for chewing food.

4. Canines and Second Molars

The canines (located next to the incisors) and second molars fill in the gaps, usually by the time a child is 2 to 3 years old. By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth.

Taking Care of Baby Teeth

Even before your baby’s first tooth appears, it’s important to care for their oral health. You can gently clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. Once the first tooth appears, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush with a tiny smear of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) to brush their teeth twice a day.

When Should a Baby Go to the Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that a child see a dentist by age 1 or within six months after their first tooth. This early visit is crucial for educating parents about proper oral hygiene practices and assessing the child’s oral health and development. After the first visit, pediatric dentists recommend regular dental visits to maintain your child’s oral health and growth. During these visits, the dentist can identify any potential issues early on, share advice on teething and oral habits (such as thumb sucking), and help ensure that your child grows up with a healthy smile.

Resources on Oral Health and Babies

These resources can provide parents and caregivers with reliable information and guidance on managing teething and ensuring the best oral health outcomes for their babies.

1. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD):The AAPD is a leading authority on children’s oral health and offers a wealth of resources for parents and caregivers. Their “Guideline on Infant Oral Health Care” provides evidence-based recommendations for the oral health management of infants, including the importance of the first dental visit, fluoride use, and the management of teething discomfort.
2. American Dental Association (ADA): The ADA’s “Mouth Healthy” site offers easy-to-understand information on a variety of topics, including teething and the care of baby teeth. The ADA provides practical tips on how to clean your baby’s teeth and manage teething pain.

The AAPD recommends that parents establish a “dental home no later than 12 months of age to help children and their families institute a lifetime of optimal oral health.” Newtown Dentistry has been the home for pediatric dental care for thousands of families for more than 25 years. We typically see babies when they get their first teeth, and we follow many of them through their teenage years and as they transition to our adult practice.

You can take a tour of our specially designed child-friendly environment here. And let us help you develop a long-term personalized and oral health plan for your child that begins with your baby’s specific needs and guides you through their overall oral health development. Schedule your appointment now. Or, call us any time at (215) 774-5496.