Teething is a significant milestone in a baby’s life, and it is an exciting time for parents to witness their little one’s first tooth emerge. But, as a parent, it is also natural to have questions about when this process begins.
Most babies will start teething between the ages of 6 and 12 months, but it is not uncommon for some babies to begin as early as three months or as late as 14 months. The timing of teething can vary significantly from one baby to another, and there is no specific age that applies to all babies.
While the timing of teething can vary, there are some common signs that indicate your baby is starting to teethe. These signs include fussiness, drooling, irritability, and biting or chewing on objects. Understanding the signs and symptoms of teething can help parents prepare and support their baby during this exciting stage of development.
Key Takeaways on When Do Babies Get Their First Tooth
Part of normal development — Teething is a natural process of a baby teeth breaking through swollen gums and usually starts between 6 and 12 months of age, but can start as early as 3 months or as late as 14 months.
Identifying symptoms — Common signs and symptoms of teething include fussiness, drooling, irritability, biting or chewing on objects.
Knowing when teething starts — Primary teeth development usually begins when in the womb and babies typically start to develop teeth around the 6-month mark.
Primary Teeth Development
Primary teeth, also known as baby teeth or deciduous teeth, are the first set of teeth that infants develop. These teeth are important for a child’s speech, chewing, and overall oral health. Primary teeth usually start to develop when a baby is in the womb, and they begin to appear in the mouth around six months of age.
The Stages of Primary Teeth Development
Primary teeth development can be divided into several stages:
- Bud stage: This is the earliest stage of tooth development. At this stage, the teeth buds are forming in the gums.
- Cap stage: In this stage, the enamel and dentin layers of the teeth are forming. The teeth are still inside the gums.
- Bell stage: At this stage, the babies teeth are almost fully formed. The roots are starting to develop, and the teeth are getting ready to erupt through the gums.
- Eruption stage: This is the stage when the teeth start to appear in the baby’s mouth. The lower central incisors are usually the first to erupt, followed by the upper central incisors.
It’s important to note that the timing of primary teeth development can vary from child to child. While most children will start to develop teeth around six months of age, some may start earlier or later. Genetics can also play a role in the timing of tooth eruption.
Overall, primary teeth development is an important process that sets the foundation for a child’s oral health. Parents should take care to ensure their child’s teeth are properly cleaned and cared for from an early age to promote healthy teeth and gums.
When Does Teething Start?
Teething is the process of a baby teeth breaking through their swollen gums. It can be a challenging time for both the baby and the parents. Understanding when teething starts and knowing teething symptoms can help parents prepare for this milestone.
Age Range for Teething
Most babies start teething between 6 and 12 months of age, but it can vary. Some babies may start teething as early as 2 or 3 months, while others may not start until after their first birthday. It is essential to remember that every baby is unique, and there is no set timeline for teething.
Signs and Symptoms of Teething
When a baby starts teething, they may experience a range of symptoms. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of teething include:
- Irritability and fussiness
- Increased drooling
- Biting and chewing on objects
- Difficulty sleeping
- Swollen and tender gums
- Loss of appetite
It is important to note that not all babies will experience all of these symptoms. Some babies may only show a few signs, while others may not show any at all.
Parents should keep an eye out for any changes in their baby’s behavior and consult with their pediatrician if they have any concerns.
Teething is a natural process that every baby goes through at their own pace. Understanding when teething typically starts and what signs and symptoms to look for can help parents prepare for this milestone and provide comfort to their little ones during this challenging time.
Teething Remedies
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. Fortunately, there are several safe and effective remedies that can help ease your baby’s discomfort during this time. Here are some of the most popular remedies:
Safe and Effective Teething Remedies
Cold objects
Cold objects can help soothe your baby’s sore gums. You can try giving your baby a chilled teething ring, a cold spoon, or a cold washcloth to chew on. Just be sure not to freeze any objects, as this can damage your baby’s gums.
Gentle pressure
Applying gentle pressure to your baby’s gums can also help alleviate teething pain when the first tooth appears. You can try using a clean finger to massage your baby’s gums, or you can use a gum brush specially designed for babies.
Teething gels
Homeopathic teething gels can be a helpful remedy for some babies. These gels contain a mild anesthetic that can numb your baby’s gums and provide temporary relief from teething pain. However, it’s important to choose a teething gel that is specifically designed for babies and to follow the instructions carefully.
Pain relief medication
If your baby is experiencing severe teething pain, you may want to consider giving them a pain relief medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
However, it’s important to talk to your baby’s pediatrician before giving them any medication, and to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Overall, there are several safe and effective remedies that can help ease your baby’s teething pain. By trying a few different remedies, you can find the one that works best for your baby and help them get through this challenging time.
When to See a Dentist
Reasons to See a Dentist During Teething
While teething is a normal part of a baby’s development, there are certain situations where a visit to the dentist may be necessary. Here are some reasons to consider scheduling an appointment with a pediatric dentist:
- If your baby’s first tooth has not erupted by the age of 18 months.
- If you notice any discoloration or spots on your baby’s teeth.
- If your baby is experiencing excessive drooling or has a rash around their mouth.
- If your baby is experiencing persistent pain or discomfort during teething that cannot be managed with over-the-counter remedies.
- If you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s teething process or oral health.
It’s important to note that not all babies will need to see a dentist during teething. However, if you are unsure or have any concerns, it’s always best to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist to ensure your baby’s oral health is on track.
Additionally, the American Dental Association recommends that babies see a dentist 6 months after the baby’s teeth start coming out.
FAQS on When Does Teething Start in Infants
Can my baby be teething at 3 months?
Yes, it is possible for a baby to start teething as early as 3 months, though it’s more common for teething to begin around 4 to 7 months of age. Every baby is different, and some may start teething earlier or later than others.
What month does teething start?
Teething typically starts between 4 to 7 months of age, but it can vary for each child. Some babies may begin teething earlier, while others may start later.
How long does it take for a tooth to break through gums?
It can take anywhere from a few days to a few months for a tooth to break through the gums. The process varies for each child, and some teeth may emerge more quickly than others.
How long do babies show signs of teething?
Babies can show signs of teething for several weeks or even months before a tooth actually emerges. Signs may come and go during this time, and some babies may experience more discomfort and fussiness than others.
What can I give my 3-month-old for teething?
For a 3-month-old teething baby, you can try the following:
- Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a damp, cool washcloth
- Offering a chilled (not frozen) teething ring or pacifier for your baby to chew on
- Distracting your baby with cuddles, playtime, or soothing activities Always consult with your pediatrician before administering any medication or over-the-counter remedies.
How do I know if my 3-month-old is teething?
Signs that your 3-month-old may be teething include:
- Increased drooling
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Fussiness or irritability
- Chewing on fingers or objects
- Difficulty sleeping
- A slight increase in temperature (not a fever)
What are the first signs of teething?
The first signs of teething may include:
- Increased drooling
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Irritability or fussiness
- Chewing on fingers or objects
- Sleep disturbances
- Loss of appetite
- A slight increase in temperature (not a fever)
Can babies get tooth decay from bottle feeding?
Yes, babies can get tooth decay from bottle feeding, especially if they are frequently given sugary liquids like juice, milk, or formula in their bottles. When a baby falls asleep with a bottle in their mouth, the sugary liquid can pool around their teeth and gums, leading to the growth of bacteria that produce acid that can damage the tooth enamel.
Do toys help relieve teething symptoms?
Yes, certain toys such as teething rings, Amber teething necklaces and teething toys can help relieve teething discomfort in babies. When babies are teething, they experience discomfort and pain as their teeth push through their gums. Chewing on something can help alleviate this discomfort by providing counter-pressure and distracting the baby’s attention away from the pain.
