At birth people usually have 20 baby teeth, 10 on top and 10 on the bottom. You’ll start looking for those first tiny teeth to poke through the gums at around 6 months of age— an exciting milestone. They fall out (shed) at various times throughout childhood. By age 21, all 32 of the permanent teeth have usually erupted.
This baby teeth chart will show you when each of your little one’s first set of teeth are likely to come in. Although the exact age when a tooth erupts will vary from child to child, this chart below is just a rough guide to when babies will typically get their teeth.
Teething usually begins between 6 to 12 months, although for some babies a tooth can appear as early as 4 months or sometimes even later than 12 months!The central incisors on either the top or bottom row usually make their appearance first followed by top and bottom incisors and first molars. The canines and second molars are usually the last to appear.
Children should go to the dentist every six months, starting when they begin getting their first tooth, or at one year old, whichever comes first.
Symptoms & Signs
Some babies can breeze through the process but for many it can cause cause mild irritability, crying, and even a slight temperature. Most of the discomfort comes from the swelling of the gums around the tooth that is erupting. Other symptoms and signs include increased salivation, chewing on their hands, toys or your fingers, flushed cheeks and difficulty sleeping due to irritability.
Some people think that teething causes other symptoms, such as diarrhoea, however there is no evidence to support this. If this occurs or your child has a high temperature it is likely due to something else so contact your health care provider for advice.
What can you do to soothe baby?
To give your baby some short-term relief you can give your baby something to chew on, like a teething ring. Place this in the fridge first (NOT THE FREEZER) to cool it down a bit as the cold can help relieve pain on the gums or you can use a cold metal spoon. Chilled fruit is also a great option for babies that are on solids. Make sure to cut these correctly to avoid risk of choking or place in a baby feeder which they can chew on. Avoid giving rusks or teething biscuits as they can be high in sugar which is not good for gums and teeth! Lots of cuddles and comfort can always help baby feel better!
Read more here on baby’s oral hygiene before teeth even appear!
