Teething is a rite of passage for your baby, and it's essential to be prepared! Luckily, we've got you covered.
Be Prepared for the Teething Phase
Teething can be an uncomfortable and disruptive process for both you and your baby, but knowing the answers to these questions can help you be prepared for the teething phase:
- How long does it usually take for a tooth to come in?
- How old will my child be before getting their first tooth?
- When do babies get their molars?
- What are the signs that my child is getting ready to teethe?
When Do Babies Start Getting Teeth?
Your baby's first tooth will appear between six and eight months. The second incisors to erupt are usually the upper lateral incisors (the ones next to your front teeth). These typically come in at around twelve months of age, along with the upper central incisors and lower central incisors.
The two remaining molars typically appear by 18 months, followed by the remaining primary teeth. By 24 months old, most children have all 20 primary teeth. However, it’s not uncommon for some kids to get their first permanent tooth later than other children.
What is Teething, and What Are the Symptoms?
Teething is the process of teeth emerging through your infant's gums. It begins around six months of age when a tooth bud appears near the gum line. The entire process takes about six to eight weeks and typically ends by twelve months of age.
The first teething symptoms will include drooling, chewing on things, fussiness, and fever. Teething can be uncomfortable for your baby, but much of their discomfort comes from unfamiliarity with the discomfort and not being able to express it at this early point in their development.
Do All Babies Start Teething at the Same Time?
It's important to know that teething can start as early as six months of age but may not begin until two years. The average time for a baby to start teething is eight months old. The following chart shows the average age certain teeth erupt.:
- 6-8 Months: First top teeth (central incisors) appear
- 9-10 Months: First lateral incisors appear
- 11-12 Months: First molars appear
How Long Does it Take for a Baby to Get All 20 Primary Teeth?
Many parents wonder how long it takes for their baby to get all 20 primary teeth. The answer is that there's no set time, and each child's development varies. Most babies will have all of their primary teeth by age two, but some may not have them until age three or four.
Most babies start getting their first tooth at about six months old, with most of the rest appearing by one year old. Some children get several teeth before they turn one, while others might not get any until closer to age two.
If your little one misses the window for getting an incisor or canine tooth between 6-12 months old, don't worry, They'll arrive soon enough!
Tackle the Teething Process with Confidence
Now, you’re ready to tackle the teething process with confidence. Just remember that every child is different, and they may not follow the typical timeline or exhibit the usual symptoms, Be patient during teething. If you need to, contact a pediatric dentist for help or advice.
Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit
Many experts recommend that children see the dentist at age one or when the first tooth erupts. If your child is ready for their first dental appointment, contact us today at 301-327-1003 to schedule their dental visit. We look forward to starting your child on a path to lifelong dental health.