Most infants begin cutting their first teeth between 6 and 12 months of age. This period, often called teething, marks a significant developmental milestone for babies.
The Typical Teething Timeline
While the 6 to 12-month window is the most common, every baby's development is unique. The exact timing can vary based on genetics and other individual factors.
Understanding Delayed Teething
It's important to note that not all babies follow the typical timeline. Some infants may experience delayed teething, where their first teeth emerge after 12 months of age, or even later. This can sometimes extend up to 15 months of age and is still considered a variation of normal development, even if it's outside the most common range. If your 1-year-old hasn't developed any teeth yet, it's often nothing to worry about, though consulting with a pediatrician is always a good idea for personalized advice.
Common Signs of Teething
Recognizing the signs of teething can help parents understand what their baby is experiencing. These often include:
- Increased drooling: Babies produce more saliva to soothe irritated gums.
- Irritability or fussiness: Discomfort from erupting teeth can make babies more irritable than usual.
- Swollen or tender gums: The gums around the emerging tooth may appear red and swollen.
- Chewing on objects: Babies instinctively chew on anything they can get their hands on to relieve pressure on their gums.
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns: Pain can disrupt feeding and sleep.
- Slight fever: A low-grade fever (below 101°F or 38.3°C) can sometimes accompany teething, but higher fevers are usually a sign of illness and should be addressed by a doctor.
The Order of Tooth Eruption
While the timing varies, the general order in which teeth appear is fairly consistent. Here’s a typical progression:
| Tooth Type | Average Age of Eruption |
|---|---|
| Lower Central Incisors | 6-10 months |
| Upper Central Incisors | 8-12 months |
| Upper Lateral Incisors | 9-13 months |
| Lower Lateral Incisors | 10-16 months |
| First Molars | 13-19 months |
| Canines | 16-22 months |
| Second Molars | 23-33 months |
Note: These are average ranges and individual variations are common.
Soothing Teething Discomfort
There are several ways parents can help alleviate their baby's teething discomfort:
- Teething toys: Offering teething rings or toys made of firm rubber can provide relief when babies chew on them. Ensure they are age-appropriate and free of harmful chemicals.
- Gentle gum massage: Gently rubbing your baby's gums with a clean finger can help soothe soreness.
- Cold objects: A cold washcloth, a chilled (not frozen) teething ring, or even a cold spoon can numb the gums temporarily.
- Over-the-counter remedies: For significant discomfort, discuss with your pediatrician if pain relievers like infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen are appropriate.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Even before teeth appear, gently wipe your baby's gums with a soft, damp cloth. Once teeth emerge, begin brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (rice-grain size) as recommended by dentists.
Understanding the wide range of what's considered normal for teething can help parents navigate this exciting stage with confidence and provide the best comfort for their little ones.
