As a new mom, it’s important to know when your baby will start developing teeth. Seeing your little one’s first tooth can be an exciting milestone, but it can also be a difficult and uncomfortable time for your baby. It’s important to know what to expect and how to care for your baby’s teeth as they start to develop. In this article, we’ll go over when your baby will start developing teeth and what you can do to help them through this process.
Table of Contents
When Does Tooth Development Begin?
Tooth development actually begins before your baby is even born. At around six weeks of pregnancy, tooth buds start to form in the gums. By the time your baby is born, they have already formed 20 primary teeth. These teeth will start to emerge through the gums at different times.
When Do The First Teeth Appear?
The first teeth usually appear between 4 and 7 months of age. However, some babies may start teething as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. The two bottom front teeth, also known as the central incisors, are usually the first to come in. The upper front teeth will follow shortly after, usually within the next month. The rest of the teeth will emerge over the next couple of years, with the last molars usually appearing around age 3.
![When Does The Baby Start Developing Teeth](https://i0.wp.com/4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nju-U2i0yMw/UooVjoxY7AI/AAAAAAAAALU/8G_PpNgcVCQ/s1600/teething.jpg?resize=640%2C400&ssl=1)
What Are The Signs Of Teething?
Teething can cause discomfort for your baby, so it’s important to know the signs. Some common symptoms of teething include:
- Fussiness or irritability
- Drooling
- Biting or chewing on objects
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite
What Can You Do To Help?
There are several things you can do to help your baby through the teething process:
- Massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a cold, damp cloth.
- Give your baby a teething ring or a cold, wet washcloth to chew on.
- Offer your baby cool, soft foods like applesauce or yogurt.
- Use a teething gel or medication recommended by your pediatrician.
How To Care For Your Baby’s Teeth?
Even before your baby’s teeth start to come in, it’s important to care for their gums. After feedings, wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth. Once the teeth start to come in, you can start brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to schedule your baby’s first dental appointment by their first birthday.
As your baby’s teeth continue to come in, make sure to continue brushing them twice a day and flossing them once a day. Avoid giving your baby sugary drinks or snacks, and limit their use of pacifiers and bottles. By taking care of their teeth from a young age, you can help set them up for a lifetime of good oral health.
Conclusion
Teething can be a difficult time for your baby, but with the right care and attention, you can help ease their discomfort. Knowing when your baby will start developing teeth and what to expect can help you prepare for this exciting and sometimes challenging milestone. Remember to take care of your baby’s teeth from a young age, and schedule regular dental checkups to ensure their smile stays healthy and bright.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When do the first teeth usually appear?
A: The first teeth usually appear between 4 and 7 months of age.
Q: What are the signs of teething?
A: Some common symptoms of teething include fussiness or irritability, drooling, biting or chewing on objects, difficulty sleeping, and loss of appetite.
Q: How can I help my baby through the teething process?
A: You can help your baby through the teething process by massaging their gums, giving them a teething ring or a cold, wet washcloth to chew on, offering them cool, soft foods, and using a teething gel or medication recommended by your pediatrician.
Q: How do I care for my baby’s teeth?
A: Even before your baby’s teeth start to come in, it’s important to care for their gums. After feedings, wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth. Once the teeth start to come in, you can start brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Q: When should I schedule my baby’s first dental appointment?
A: Make sure to schedule your baby’s first dental appointment by their first birthday.