Babies usually start teething around 6 months old, but it can happen anytime between 4 and 10 months. Some babies begin earlier or later, and a few are even born with teeth. The process of teething varies for every child, but most get their first tooth by about half a year.

The first teeth to appear are usually the two bottom front teeth, followed by the four upper front teeth. Teething symptoms like drooling, chewing, and irritability often start a few days before a tooth actually breaks through the gums. Knowing what to expect can help parents care for their baby during this sometimes uncomfortable time.

Recognizing early signs and understanding the usual timeline can make a big difference in managing your baby’s comfort. Simple home remedies and gentle care help ease pain and support healthy tooth growth as their smile begins to form.

Key Takeaways

• Babies typically start teething between 4 and 10 months of age.
• Early signs include drooling and chewing before teeth appear.
• Gentle home care helps soothe discomfort and supports healthy teeth.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Babies usually begin teething in their first year, but the exact timing can vary widely. Some may see their first tooth early, while others take longer. Understanding the typical age range and what can affect when teeth appear can help caregivers know what to expect.

Average Age for First Tooth

Most babies start teething around six months old. This is when the first baby tooth, often one of the bottom front teeth, usually breaks through the gums. By about 12 months, many infants have several teeth.

Babies often have a full set of 20 primary teeth by age three. Teeth usually appear in pairs, with bottom front teeth first, then top front teeth next. Teething symptoms like fussiness and drooling can begin a few weeks before a tooth shows.

More details on the timeline can be found in this teething timeline and care guide.

Range of Teething Start Times

While six months is average, some babies start earlier or later. It is normal for teeth to begin as early as 2 or 3 months or as late as 9 months or even beyond. Some babies are born with one or two teeth, though this is rare.

If a baby has not cut any teeth by 18 months, it may be worth consulting a pediatric dentist to rule out any underlying issues.

Symptoms such as drooling, chewing, or irritability often happen before teeth come in and can vary in intensity between babies. Some babies show no clear signs until teeth appear.

Learn more about the wide range of teething ages in this comprehensive teething overview.

Factors Influencing Teething Age

Several factors can affect when babies start teething. Genetics play a major role; often, babies begin teething around the same age as their siblings or parents did.

Other influences include whether the baby was born early or at low birth weight, which can delay tooth eruption. Nutritional factors, like vitamin deficiencies, might also impact timing.

Environmental and health conditions, such as thyroid problems, can delay teething but are less common. Most delays are not cause for concern unless accompanied by other health issues.

Information on what affects teething timing is available from sources like this detailed health article.

Teething Timeline and Tooth Eruption Order

Babies start teething at different times, but most begin around 6 months. Their baby teeth come in a specific order, gradually filling the mouth by age 3. These teeth later fall out to make room for permanent teeth, which follow their own timeline.

Baby Teeth Chart and Eruption Sequence

The first baby teeth to appear are usually the lower central incisors, followed by the upper central incisors. Next come the lateral incisors on both jaws. After these, the first molars erupt, usually between 13 and 19 months. Then, the canines appear, typically between 16 and 23 months. The last to come in are the second molars, which usually appear between 23 and 33 months.

By the time a child reaches about 3 years old, most will have a full set of 20 primary teeth. These include 10 on the upper jaw and 10 on the lower jaw. This sequence helps with chewing and speaking development.

Stages of Teething

Teething starts when teeth begin to push through the gums, a process called tooth eruption. This can cause discomfort, swollen gums, and fussiness. The first noticeable stage is usually the appearance of the two front teeth.

Following the eruption of the front teeth, other teeth come in one or two at a time. Each tooth’s eruption often involves a few days of symptoms like extra drooling and mild irritability. The entire teething phase lasts about 2 to 3 years until all primary teeth emerge.

Primary and Permanent Teeth Milestones

Primary teeth stay until about age 6, at which point they begin to fall out. The first molars fall around ages 9 to 11, and the second molars between 10 and 12 years. Permanent teeth then replace baby teeth in a similar order.

Permanent teeth include bigger versions of the same types: central and lateral incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. The development and shedding of primary teeth set the foundation for a healthy adult smile.

For detailed timing, parents can refer to a baby teeth chart and eruption timeline.

Recognizing Teething Signs and Symptoms

Teething can affect babies in different ways. It often begins with subtle changes and gradually leads to more noticeable discomfort. Paying attention to these signs helps caregivers offer the right support during this stage.

Common Signs of Teething

Babies often start teething around 4 to 7 months. Some common signs include increased drooling and constant chewing on objects. These behaviors help soothe swollen gums.

Irritability is another usual symptom. Babies may cry more and be harder to calm because of teething pain. Their gums might look red or swollen, showing inflammation where teeth are coming in.

Other signs include mild changes in sleep and feeding patterns. Babies might wake more at night or refuse to nurse or eat because of gum sensitivity. These signs are normal but still important to note.

How Teething Symptoms Progress

Teething symptoms usually start mildly. At first, a baby might have just a little drooling or gum rubbing. Over days or weeks, this can increase.

Gums may become visibly swollen and tender before a tooth breaks through. This can cause fussiness and changes in appetite. Some babies lose interest in solid foods temporarily due to mouth discomfort.

Pain tends to come and go. It often peaks when the tooth actually emerges. After the tooth appears, symptoms usually lessen over a few days. Not all babies experience pain the same way; some barely react, while others seem very uncomfortable.

When Symptoms May Signal Other Issues

Not all signs during teething are caused by teeth. If a baby has a high fever, diarrhea, or rash, these are usually unrelated to teething and may indicate illness.

Severe irritability or prolonged loss of appetite could mean a problem beyond teething. Also, if drooling is excessive over a long period, it could cause skin irritation that needs treatment.

Caregivers should consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or don’t improve. It’s important to separate normal teething signs from signs of infection or other health issues. This ensures the baby gets proper care without delay.

For more details on teething symptoms and how to respond, see this guide on teething in babies: symptoms and remedies.

Easing Teething Discomfort and Baby Teeth Care

Babies often show signs of discomfort when their first teeth begin to appear. Providing safe relief and starting proper dental care early helps ease pain and keeps their teeth healthy as they grow.

Safe Teething Remedies and Relief Methods

To soothe sore gums, parents can massage the baby’s gums gently with a clean finger. This gentle pressure can reduce pain and help the baby relax. Cold items, like a damp washcloth chilled in the fridge, are often comforting. Babies can safely chew on these, but supervision is necessary to prevent choking.

Teething rings and solid teething toys can also relieve discomfort. It is best to refrigerate these before use to provide cooling relief. Avoid toys filled with liquid or gel, as they may leak and cause harm. Pacifiers can be cooled in the refrigerator, but should always be clean and free of damage.

Over-the-counter pain medications may be used only after consulting a doctor. Teething gels with numbing agents like benzocaine or lidocaine should be avoided due to risks of swallowing issues.

Caring for Emerging Baby Teeth

Once a baby tooth appears, cleaning it daily is important. Use a soft, damp cloth or a soft-bristled baby toothbrush to wipe the teeth and gums. Fluoride toothpaste is not recommended until the baby is at least three years old and can spit it out safely, but a tiny amount of training toothpaste without fluoride is allowed.

Good dental hygiene from the start supports healthy gums and teeth for the adult teeth that will come later. Drool caused by teething should be wiped away often to prevent skin irritation around the mouth. Bibs can help keep clothing dry during this phase.

When to Consult a Pediatric Dentist

Scheduling the first dental visit soon after the first tooth appears establishes a good dental care routine. A pediatric dentist can check for proper tooth development and advise on cleaning techniques.

Parents should contact a pediatric dentist if the baby shows a high fever (above 100.4°F), persistent diarrhea, or unusual symptoms. Also, if teeth appear irregular or the baby is in extreme discomfort, professional advice is important.

Regular dental checkups help ensure any issues are caught early, supporting lifelong oral health from the start. Pediatric dentistry focuses on the unique needs of infants and toddlers to keep their teeth healthy and strong.

Frequently Asked Questions

Babies usually start teething around six months, but this can vary widely. Signs include drooling, chewing, and fussiness. Some babies may show early signs even at two months. There are safe remedies to ease discomfort. Breastfeeding mothers may notice changes in feeding habits due to teething.

At what age do infants typically begin to teeth?

Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months old. It is common for the first tooth to appear around 6 months. Some babies get teeth earlier or later without any problems.

What symptoms indicate a baby is starting to teethe?

Common signs are drooling, chewing on objects, swollen or sore gums, irritability, and trouble sleeping. Some babies also have flushed cheeks or pull on their ears during teething.

How can early teething be identified in infants?

Early teething signs include increased drooling, frequent chewing, and fussiness. These symptoms can begin before a tooth emerges clearly. Parents may notice swollen gums even if they do not see a tooth yet.

Is it possible for a baby to start teething at 2 months?

Yes, some babies may begin teething as early as 2 or 3 months old. This is less common but not usually a cause for concern if the baby shows typical teething symptoms.

What are effective remedies for a teething baby?

Gently massaging the gums with a clean finger or a cold cloth helps ease pain. Chilled teething rings and cold foods, for babies who eat solids, can also soothe gums. Over-the-counter pain relief may be used but only under a doctor’s advice.

What signs of teething should breastfeeding mothers look out for?

Breastfeeding babies may bite during feeding or latch differently because of gum pain. They might also want to nurse more often for comfort. These changes often happen before any teeth are visible.

For more details, visit When Do Babies Start Teething? Symptoms, Remedies, and More.