When Do Babies Start to Teeth: Everything You Need to Know
Hello readers! Welcome to our in-depth guide on when do babies start to teeth. As you welcome your precious little bundle of joy into the world, you’ll embark on an exciting journey filled with milestones. Teething is one of the most significant and memorable developmental milestones that your baby will experience. In this article, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about when babies start to teeth, the signs to look out for, and how to soothe your baby’s teething discomfort.
What is Teething?
Teething is the process by which your baby’s teeth break through the gums. It’s a natural and gradual process that usually begins around 6 months of age. However, it’s important to note that every baby is different, and some may start teething earlier or later than this average timeline.
Signs and Symptoms of Teething
As your baby’s first teeth approach the surface, there are a few telltale signs and symptoms to watch out for:
- Excessive drooling: Babies may drool more than usual as their gums become irritated and inflamed.
- Irritability and fussiness: Teething can cause discomfort and pain, leading to increased fussiness and irritability.
- Gum inflammation: You may notice your baby’s gums becoming red and swollen.
- Chewing on objects: Babies may constantly chew on toys, teething rings, or their hands to soothe the pressure on their gums.
- Sleep disturbances: Teething can disrupt your baby’s sleep patterns, causing them to wake frequently in the night.
When Do Babies Start to Teeth?
The timing of teething can vary significantly from one baby to another. However, here’s a general timeline of when babies typically start to teeth:
- Around 6 months: Most babies start teething around the six-month mark. The lower front teeth (central incisors) usually appear first.
- 8-10 months: The upper front teeth (lateral incisors) and the lower lateral incisors usually erupt around this time.
- 12-16 months: The first molars, or the back teeth, start to appear.
- 18-24 months: The canines, or the pointy teeth, usually break through the gums.
- 25-33 months: The second molars, or the final set of baby teeth, complete the teething process.
Teething Timeline Table
| Tooth Type | Eruption Age |
|---|---|
| Central incisors (lower) | 6-10 months |
| Lateral incisors (upper) | 8-12 months |
| Lateral incisors (lower) | 8-12 months |
| First molars (upper) | 12-18 months |
| First molars (lower) | 12-18 months |
| Canines (upper) | 18-24 months |
| Canines (lower) | 18-24 months |
| Second molars (upper) | 25-33 months |
| Second molars (lower) | 25-33 months |
How to Soothe Your Baby’s Teething Pain
Teething can be an uncomfortable experience for your baby. Here are some tips to help soothe their pain:
- Massage your baby’s gums: Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a teething toothbrush. This can help relieve pressure and discomfort.
- Offer cold objects to chew on: Cold objects like teething rings or refrigerated washcloths can help numb the gums and reduce inflammation.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers: If your baby is experiencing severe pain, you can give them over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Create a soothing environment: Make sure your baby gets plenty of rest and has access to comfortable objects like blankets and loveys.
Conclusion
Teething is a common and important milestone in your baby’s development. By understanding when babies start to teeth and the signs to watch out for, you can be prepared to help your little one through this process. Remember to consult your healthcare provider if your baby shows any unusual symptoms or experiences excessive pain.
In the meantime, check out our other articles on baby care and development:
- How to Bathe a Newborn Baby: A Step-by-Step Guide
- When Do Babies Start to Roll Over: A Comprehensive Guide
- How to Choose the Right Baby Formula: A Parent’s Guide
FAQ about When Do Babies Start to Teeth
When do most babies start teething?
Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months old.
What are the signs and symptoms of teething?
Teething can cause a variety of symptoms, including: irritability, drooling, and biting on objects. Some babies may also experience a fever, cough, or diarrhea.
How can I help my teething baby?
There are a few things you can do to help relieve your teething baby’s discomfort, including: offering cold objects to chew on, rubbing their gums, and giving them a teething ring.
When should I be concerned about my baby’s teething?
If your baby’s teething is causing severe pain or discomfort, you should see a doctor.
Can teething cause a fever?
Yes, teething can sometimes cause a fever, but it is usually mild and will go away within a few days.
What is a teething rash?
A teething rash is a red, bumpy rash that can appear on a baby’s face, chest, or back. It is caused by the increased saliva that is produced during teething.
Can I give my baby teething medication?
There are a few over-the-counter teething medications available, but you should always talk to your doctor before giving any medication to your baby.
How long does teething last?
Teething typically lasts for 6 to 8 months, but it can vary from baby to baby.
What are the different types of baby teeth?
There are two types of baby teeth: incisors and molars. Incisors are the front teeth, and molars are the back teeth.
What is the order in which baby teeth come in?
Baby teeth usually come in in the following order: lower incisors, upper incisors, lower molars, upper molars, and canines.
