As a new parent, you may be wondering when your baby's first teeth will arrive. Knowing when to expect these milestones can help you prepare for the teething process and ensure that your child receives proper dental care from an early age.
When do babies start teething?
Teething is the process of a baby's teeth emerging from the gums. Most babies begin teething between the ages of 4 and 7 months, although some may start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.
The first teeth to emerge are usually the lower front teeth, followed by the upper front teeth, and then the molars.
What are the signs of teething?
Teething can be a painful process for babies, and they may experience a range of symptoms as their teeth emerge. Some common signs of teething include:
- Drooling
- Irritability or fussiness
- Swollen or tender gums
- Chewing on objects or fingers
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in appetite
How can I help my teething baby?
There are several things you can do to help ease your baby's teething pain. Some strategies include:
- Giving your baby something to chew on, such as a teething ring or cold washcloth.
- Rubbing your baby's gums with a clean finger or damp gauze pad
- Offering your baby, a pacifier (dummy)
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as infant paracetamol or ibuprofen (but always check with your GP first)
When should I take my baby to the dentist?
It's important to start taking your child to the dentist early on to establish good dental habits and ensure that their teeth are developing properly.
It is recommended that you take your baby to the dentist within 6 months of their first tooth coming in, or by the time they’re 12 months old. Your dentist can provide guidance on how to care for your child's teeth as they grow and monitor their dental health over time.
Teething is a normal and natural part of a baby's development, but it can be a challenging time for both the parents and babies.
By knowing what to expect and taking steps to alleviate teething pain, you can help your child through this process with minimal discomfort. And by starting dental visits early, you can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
Please note that this article is for patient information purposes only. The information provided is based on guidance available at the time of writing, which may subsequently change. Please consult your own dentist with any individual queries.
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