call or textAh, the joys of parenthood! Helping tiny humans learn and grow can be one of the most rewarding things in the world but, no one said it was easy. Teething is one milestone that is hard on parents and babies. But the good news is, it does not last forever! Keep reading to learn more about this special time in your little one’s life and when to expect to see your child’s first teeth.
What is Teething?
Teething is when a child’s first tooth breaks through their gums. These teeth are called primary teeth or baby teeth and are temporary. Though they will eventually fall out, it is important to care for baby teeth just as you would permanent teeth. Baby teeth serve significant functions in preparing the mouth for permanent teeth. They also help in the development of speech and of course, eating.
When to Expect a Baby’s First Teeth
If you are a new parent, it is essential to remember that children develop at individual speeds. Everything from crawling, talking, reading and more can take place at different ages. It is important not to compare your baby’s development to others. This includes teething. Generally, a baby will cut their first teeth between 5 and 10 months old. Some children may do it sooner and for others, it may take longer.
Things to Help with Teething
- Teething toys
- Chewing or sucking on a cold or frozen washcloth
- Over-the-counter pain reliever made for babies or infants (Always check with your pediatrician for dosing information.)
- Massaging your child’s gums
- Lots of extra cuddles
Please note that while they are still available for purchase, it is not recommended to use oral numbing gels. Even though these gels are marketed for teething pain, the FDA does not recommend them because of the potential for overdose and for numbing the throat and mouth to the point of posing a choking risk.
Which Teeth Come When?
Usually, a baby will get their two lower front teeth first, followed by their top two front teeth. After that, the surrounding teeth will start to fill in. Again, this happens at different times and different orders for each child. Babies typically start getting their first set of molars around the age of 13 or 14 months and should have a full set of teeth by age three. The average child will start to lose their baby teeth around the age of 6 or 7 and will soon after begin seeing their permanent teeth come in.
Make an Appointment
Once your baby has his or her first tooth, it is time to make a dentist appointment! (Or by their first birthday, whichever comes first.) It may seem like they are too little, but early prevention and treatment are key to lifelong healthy teeth! Contact us for an appointment. We love new patients and cannot wait to serve your family.
