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When Do Baby Teeth Come In?

Few words can describe the joy most parents have when their babies’ first teeth start poking out from their tiny gums. These first teeth are a huge milestone, marking the beginning of a dental journey that’ll last their entire lives. However, this excitement is often short-lived as the teething process is filled with bumps and hurdles you’ll have to overcome.

Knowing when the baby teeth come in is the first step in preparing for your baby’s set of chompers. That way, you can adequately prepare for the teeth and enjoy your precious one’s toothy grins to the fullest. Join us today as we discuss everything you need to know about your baby’s teeth coming in.

What Is Teething?

Teething is the natural process by which a baby’s first set of teeth (primary/baby teeth) emerges from the gums, often in twos, starting with the mandibular central incisors. The process usually begins when the baby is around six to eight months old but varies from one infant to the next. All the primary teeth will have come in by the time the baby hits thirty-three months.

What Parents Should Know About Baby Teeth

There’s considerable variability with when a baby’s first teeth emerge and how they’ll react to the teething process. To prevent unpleasant surprises, here’s everything you need to know about your little one’s first teeth

Teeth Come in Between 6 and 12 Months

As mentioned, the baby's first teeth usually come in between 6 and 8 months but could sometimes take up to 12 months for late bloomers. Don’t be alarmed if the teeth don’t appear after the eighth month. Give it a few weeks, and you’ll notice the first lower incisors poking out, followed by the upper ones, and before you know it, your baby will have a full set of teeth.

Look Out for Signs of Teethings

Always keep an eye out for the telltale signs of teething. That way, you can take the right steps to ensure a smooth process. These signs include:

  • Irritability
  • Excessive drooling
  • Biting and chewing random objects
  • Sleep disruption
  • Cheek rubbing

Teething Is Painful for Babies

The emergence of the first teeth is often a painful and uncomfortable experience for your precious one. That’s because the teeth pierce through the soft gum tissue, pressuring the sensitive nerves and causing inflammation. The discomfort will make your child cranky, often disrupting their feeding and sleeping habits.

How Can I Make This Process Easier for My Child?

Teething can be uncomfortable for babies, but you can help them through the process. Here are a couple of tips for doing just that:

  • Gently massage their gums using your clean index finger
  • Give them clean, non-toxic chewing toys (cooled) to ease the discomfort
  • Feed them chilled soft foods like yogurt and applesauce 
  • Play with your baby to distract them from the pain
  • Let them gnaw on a cold washcloth to soothe their gums

Here to Guide Your Baby’s Dental Journey

Teething is an exciting but trying time for parents. Having a pediatric dentist on speed dial during this period is instrumental in streamlining your baby’s dental journey. Remember to stay patient and follow your dentist's advice to the letter and everything will be A-okay.

Does your baby show early signs of teething, and you’re unsure what to do next? Worry not; contact Saginaw Kids Dentistry today, and we’ll help you along your child’s journey from toothless gums to a full set of teeth.

Further reading:

Welcome to Saginaw Kids Dentistry

Welcome to Saginaw Kids Dentistry

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Become a Part of OUR Family Today!

At the heart of Saginaw Kids Dentistry is our passion for meeting families, seeing them grow, and being a trustworthy presence for kids and parents alike. If you’re ready to join our patient family, book a visit online today! We are excited to meet you and your child.

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