When Does Baby Get First Teeth

When Does Baby Get First Teeth - Parents eagerly await for the arrival of their baby’s first tooth. It’s a milestone that marks the beginning of a new stage in their baby’s development. As exciting as it is, it can also be a stressful time for parents, especially first-time mothers and fathers who have never experienced this phase before. Knowing what to expect can help calm your nerves and make the process smoother. In this post, we will provide tips and ideas on when your baby will get their first tooth, how to care for their teeth and more!

When Will My Baby Get Their First Tooth?

What’s Normal?

For most babies, the first tooth usually appears between 4-7 months old. However, it is important to note that each baby is different and some babies may develop their first tooth earlier or later than this time frame. Typically, the first tooth to appear is usually the bottom front teeth followed by the top front teeth.

By the age of 3, most children will have a full set of 20 primary teeth. Some teeth may take longer to appear than others, but if your child has not developed any teeth by the age of 18 months, it’s advisable to have them examined by your pediatrician just to rule out any underlying medical issues.

What Are The Signs?

As their little teeth are growing, you may notice some symptoms in your baby:

Drooling more than usual
Chewing or biting things
Irritability or fussiness
Rubbing their gums or cheeks
Night waking

What Can I Do to Help?

As a parent, there are a number of things you can do to help soothe your baby during the teething process:

Allow your baby to chew on a teething toy or cold washcloth
Gently massage their gums with a clean finger
Use a numbing gel designed specifically for teething babies
Distract your baby by reading to them, singing or playing games
Avoid acidic or sugary foods which can damage teeth
Clean your baby’s gums and teeth with a clean damp cloth or infant toothbrush
Don’t let your baby fall asleep with a bottle in their mouth

How to Care for Your Baby’s Teeth?

Brushing:

As soon as your baby’s teeth begin to appear, it’s important to start brushing them! Use a soft bristled toothbrush and water or a fluoride toothpaste designed specifically for infants (use a rice grain size amount). Brush twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed.

Flossing:

Once teeth have grown closer together, you can start flossing your baby’s teeth. Use a soft floss that is specifically designed for babies and children. Flossing should only be done once a day, preferably at bedtime.

Diet:

Your baby’s diet plays a crucial role in their dental health. Avoid giving them sugary snacks and drinks which can cause cavities to form. When offering juice, make sure it’s 100% fruit juice and limit the amount to 4 ounces per day. Encourage a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, as well as lean meats and dairy products. Make sure you are limiting their intake of starchy and sticky foods which can cause decay.

Dental Check-Ups:

It’s important to take your child for their first dental visit by the age of 1, or as soon as their first tooth appears. Regular dental check-ups are important in developing good oral hygiene habits and preventing dental problems.

Conclusion

As a parent, it’s important to stay informed about your baby’s dental health. Starting good habits at an early age can help prevent dental problems in the future. Knowing what to expect during teething and how to properly care for their teeth can help make the process smoother and less stressful. Remember, each baby is unique and may experience teething differently. If you are ever unsure about your baby’s development, consult with your pediatrician or dentist.

Ask.DentistMY: When do your baby start to get teeth?