Baby’s First Teeth: A Guide to Which Ones Come In First

Welcome to our guide on baby’s first teeth! As a new parent, it’s essential to understand the process of your baby’s dental development. In this article, we will provide valuable information about the order in which your little one’s teeth will start appearing.

Let’s dive in!

Primary Teeth: The Foundation of a Beautiful Smile

Primary teeth, also known as baby or milk teeth, play a vital role in a child’s overall development. They help your baby chew food, speak properly, and pave the way for healthy permanent teeth later.

Although every child is different, most babies start teething around six months. Here is a general timeline of when you can expect to see their first teeth:

1. Lower Central Incisors (Bottom Front Teeth)

The first teeth to emerge are usually the two lower central incisors. These appear between four and seven months of age. Watch for swollen gums, increased drooling, and your baby’s desire to gnaw on objects.

2. Upper Central Incisors (Top Front Teeth)

Shortly after the lower central incisors, the two upper central incisors appear. These typically show up between eight to twelve months of age. Your baby’s smile will become even more adorable with these new additions!

3. Upper and Lower Lateral Incisors (Next to the Front Teeth)

The lateral incisors emerge on both the upper and lower jaws following the central incisors. These teeth are located next to the front teeth. Expect to see them between nine to sixteen months of age.

4. First Molars (Back Teeth)

Next in line are the first molars. These more prominent teeth are crucial for chewing and grinding food. They usually appear between thirteen and nineteen months of age. Your baby’s ability to enjoy a wider variety of foods will improve with these molars.

5. Canines (Cuspid Teeth)

The canines, also known as cuspid teeth, come next. These pointy teeth help tear food and guide the alignment of other teeth. Canines generally appear between sixteen and twenty-two months of age.

6. Second Molars (Back Teeth)

Last, the second molars complete the set of primary teeth. These back teeth appear between twenty-five and thirty-three months of age. Your child will now have a complete set of primary teeth, ready to keep their mouth healthy and their smile radiant!

Remember, every child’s teething journey is unique, and the above timeline is just a general guide. If you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s dental development, it’s always best to consult a pediatric dentist or healthcare professional. Good luck with this exciting milestone!

Order of baby teeth eruption

The order of baby teeth eruption typically follows this sequence:

1. Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth) – usually erupt between 6-10 months

2. Upper central incisors (top front teeth) – usually erupt between 8-12 months

3. Upper lateral incisors (teeth next to the top front teeth) – usually erupt between 9-13 months

4. Lower lateral incisors (teeth next to the bottom front teeth) – usually erupt between 10-16 months

5. First molars (back teeth) – usually erupt between 13-19 months

6. Canines (sharp teeth next to the molars) – usually erupt between 16-23 months

7. Second molars (back teeth) – usually erupt between 23-33 months

Remember that these are average ranges; every child may have a unique eruption timeline.

Signs and symptoms of teething in infants

Teething is a normal process that babies go through as their teeth start to emerge through the gums. While each baby may experience teething differently, here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

1. Excessive drooling: Increased saliva production is a common sign of teething. You may notice your baby drooling more than usual.

2. Irritability and fussiness: Teething can be uncomfortable and painful, leading to increased irritability, fussiness, and crying. Your baby may be more challenging to soothe during this time.

3. Swollen or tender gums: The gums can become red, swollen, and sensitive as the teeth push through. When pressure is applied to the gums, your baby may feel discomfort or pain.

4. Gnawing and chewing: Babies often find relief by gnawing or chewing on objects. They may bite their fingers, toys, or anything they can handle.

5. Changes in eating and sleeping patterns: Teething can affect your baby’s appetite and sleep. They may refuse to eat certain foods or have a decreased appetite. Sleep patterns may also be disrupted due to discomfort.

6. Facial rash or drool rash: Excessive drooling can cause a rash around the mouth, chin, or cheeks. Keeping the area clean and dry can help prevent and manage this rash.

7. Ear pulling or cheek rubbing: Teething pain can radiate to the ears and cheeks, leading to your baby pulling or rubbing their ears.

It’s important to note that not all babies will experience these symptoms, and some may have different signs altogether. If you are concerned about your baby’s teething process or seem to be in excessive pain, it’s best to consult a pediatrician for guidance and appropriate remedies.

How to soothe a teething baby

Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. Here are some tips to help soothe a teething baby:

1. Provide something safe to chew on: Give your baby a clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring or a damp washcloth to chew on. The pressure can help alleviate the discomfort.

2. Apply gentle pressure: Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger. The pressure can provide temporary relief.

3. Use a cold compress: Wrap a clean, damp washcloth around your finger and place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes. Once chilled, gently rub your baby’s gums with the cloth for relief.

4. Offer cold foods: If your baby has started solids, you can offer cold foods like pureed fruits or yogurt. The cool temperature can help numb the gums while also providing nutrition.

5. Use over-the-counter remedies: Consult with your pediatrician and consider using over-the-counter teething gels or pain relievers specifically designed for infants. Follow the instructions carefully.

6. Distraction and comfort: Offer extra cuddles, sing, or play with your baby to distract them from the discomfort. Sometimes, simply providing comfort and reassurance can help soothe a teething baby.

Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. If your baby’s teething symptoms are severe or persistent, it’s always best to consult your pediatrician for further guidance and advice.