Ah, the baby teething journey – one of those classic rites of passage for both parents and little ones. As a seasoned mom who's been through the ups and downs of teething, let me give you the scoop on what to expect.
When Does Teething Start ?
Teething typically starts around 6 months of age, though it can vary from baby to baby. You might notice your little one drooling more than usual, gnawing on anything they can get their hands on, and maybe even being a bit fussier. This is when the first teeth, usually the lower central incisors, begin to make their debut. From there, it's a steady march of pearly whites. By around 8 to 12 months, you’ll likely see the upper central incisors coming in, followed by the upper and lower lateral incisors over the next few months. First molars and canines start to appear around the 13 to 22-month mark, and finally, the second molars make their grand entrance between 23 and 33 months.
By the time your child is about 3 years old, they should have a full set of 20 primary teeth, also known as milk teeth. These include 10 on the top and 10 on the bottom – perfectly designed for those adorable smiles, munching on their favorite snacks, and, of course, chewing on anything they can find!
Interesting Fact : Girls Teeth may erupt a little sooner than Boys Teeth!
So, buckle up and keep those teething rings handy. Remember, this too shall pass, and soon enough, you'll be looking back on these days with a mix of nostalgia and relief!
Top Teeth | Eruption Age (Months) |
Central Incisors (Upper) | 8-12 |
Lateral Incisors (Upper) | 9-13 |
First Molars (Upper) | 13-19 |
Canines (Upper) | 16-22 |
Second Molars (Upper) | 25-33 |
Bottom Teeth | Eruption Age (Months) |
Central Incisors (Lower) | 6-10 |
Lateral Incisors (Lower) | 10-16 |
First Molars (Lower) | 14-18 |
Canines (Lower) | 17-23 |
Second Molars (Lower) | 23-31 |
How Long Does Teething Last ?
Babies typically have a total of 20 primary teeth, also known as Milk teeth or Baby teeth. Typically, teething starts around 6 months of age when those first tiny teeth begin to break through the gums. This journey continues until about 2 to 3 years old when the last of the second molars make their appearance.
So, in total, teething can last approximately 2 to 3 years. However, it’s not a constant battle. Teeth usually come in stages, giving you and your baby some much-needed breaks in between. During these stages, you might experience a few sleepless nights, drool-soaked shirts, and plenty of crankiness. But there are also periods of calm when you can catch your breath and admire those adorable new teeth. The good news is that the intense discomfort usually comes and goes rather than persisting throughout the entire teething period. Each new tooth can cause a few days to a week of discomfort, but once it's through, things generally settle down until the next one decides to make an appearance.
Can Teething Be Painful?
Yes, teething can definitely be painful for babies. As those tiny teeth push through the gums, it can cause quite a bit of discomfort. You might notice your little one being extra fussy, drooling more, and chewing on everything in sight to try to soothe their sore gums. But don't worry, it's a normal part of growing up, and there are plenty of ways to help ease the pain, like teething rings, gentle gum massages, and lots of extra cuddles.
Top 7 Care Tips for Baby Teeth
Taking care of your baby's teeth is super important, but it doesn't have to be complicated. Here are the top 7 friendly tips to keep those tiny teeth healthy and bright:
Start Early: Even before the first tooth pops out, gently wipe your baby's gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. It’s a great habit to start!
Use a Baby Toothbrush: Once that first tooth appears, switch to a small, soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants. Brush gently with water twice a day.
Introduce Toothpaste Slowly: Around your baby’s first birthday, you can start using a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste – about the size of a grain of rice. Increase to a pea-sized amount when they turn 3.
Brush Twice Daily: Make brushing a fun part of your baby’s morning and bedtime routine. Consistency is key to developing lifelong good habits.
Healthy Snacks: Offer a variety of fruits, veggies, and dairy products. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks helps prevent cavities and keeps those little teeth strong.
Regular Dental Visits: Schedule your baby’s first dental check-up by their first birthday. Regular visits help monitor their dental health and catch any issues early.
Teething Relief: For those tough teething days, provide clean teething rings, a cold washcloth, or gently massage their gums with your finger to soothe discomfort.
Interesting Fact : Your child’s primary teeth are smaller and whiter than the permanent teeth !
When do Milk Teeth Fall Out?
Milk teeth or Primary teeth, typically start to fall out around the age of 6. This process continues until about age 12 or 13, when the last of the primary teeth are replaced by permanent teeth. Here's a general timeline for when you can expect different types of baby teeth to fall out:
Central Incisors (Lower and Upper): Usually the first to go, these teeth typically fall out between ages 6 and 7.
Lateral Incisors (Lower and Upper): These teeth generally fall out between ages 7 and 8.
First Molars (Lower and Upper): These teeth usually fall out between ages 9 and 11.
Canines (Lower and Upper): The lower canines typically fall out between ages 9 and 12, while the upper canines usually fall out between ages 10 and 12.
Second Molars (Lower and Upper): These are typically the last of the baby teeth to fall out, usually between ages 10 and 12.
Every child is different, so there can be some variation in the exact timing. If you have any concerns about your child's tooth development or loss, it's always a good idea to consult with your dentist.
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