
As a new parent, one of the most exciting milestones to anticipate is the emergence of your baby’s teeth. At 16 months old, your little one should have a few teeth already and you may have noticed some changes in their eating habits. But what else can you expect in terms of your baby’s teeth development? Here’s a breakdown:
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Teeth Eruption
At 16 months old, your baby should have between 8 and 10 teeth, with the front incisors, lateral incisors, and molars being the most common teeth to have emerged by now. However, every baby is different, so if your little one has fewer teeth than this or if they are taking their time to emerge, there’s no need to worry.
Tooth Care
It’s important to start caring for your child’s teeth as soon as they appear. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of toothpaste specially designed for babies to gently clean your little one’s teeth twice a day. As your baby grows, you can gradually increase the amount of toothpaste and start teaching them how to brush their own teeth.
Bite Development
At 16 months old, your baby’s bite is likely to be more developed than when they were born. You may notice that your little one has started to use their teeth to bite and chew different foods, and that they are able to bite through tougher textures than before.
The Effects of Teething
Teething can be a trying time for both you and your baby. At 16 months old, your little one may still be experiencing some of the symptoms associated with teething, such as drooling, fussiness, and a slight fever. Be patient with your child and offer them plenty of comfort and reassurance during this time.
Dental Check-Ups
It’s recommended that your child has their first dental check-up by the age of 1, so if you haven’t already, book an appointment with a pediatric dentist. Regular dental check-ups can help to identify any potential issues early on and ensure that your child’s teeth are developing healthily.
In summary, at 16 months old, your baby’s teeth development should be well underway, with several teeth already emerged. It’s important to start caring for your little one’s teeth as soon as they appear and to take them for regular dental check-ups to ensure that their teeth are healthy and developing as they should be.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my baby doesn’t have any teeth at 16 months old?
It’s not uncommon for some babies to have a delayed teeth eruption, so there’s no need to worry if your little one hasn’t yet got any teeth. However, if you’re concerned, it’s always best to speak to your pediatrician or dentist for advice.
What if my baby’s teeth are yellow or discolored?
Some discoloration of the teeth is normal, but if your baby’s teeth are severely discolored or yellow, it could be a sign of tooth decay or another dental issue. It’s best to book an appointment with a pediatric dentist to have your child’s teeth checked and to discuss treatment options if necessary.
What can I do to soothe my baby’s teething pain?
There are several things you can do to help soothe your baby’s teething pain, such as offering them a cold teething ring or a damp washcloth to chew on, rubbing their gums gently with a clean finger, or giving them a dose of infant pain relief medicine (always check with your pediatrician before giving medicine to a baby).
When should my baby start seeing a dentist?
It’s recommended that your child has their first dental check-up by the age of 1, or as soon as their first tooth appears. After this, they should see a dentist every 6 months for regular check-ups and cleanings.
Why is it important to care for my baby’s teeth?
Caring for your baby’s teeth from a young age can help to establish good oral hygiene habits that will stay with them throughout their life. It can also help to prevent dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease, which can cause pain and discomfort and affect your child’s overall health and wellbeing.