From the Research
Baby teeth typically start to emerge around 6 months of age. The first teeth to appear are usually the lower central incisors (bottom front teeth), followed by the upper central incisors (top front teeth) 1. By age 3, most children have all 20 of their primary teeth. The timing of tooth eruption follows a genetic pattern but can be influenced by factors like nutrition and overall development. Some babies may show signs of teething earlier, such as increased drooling and irritability, while others might not get their first tooth until closer to their first birthday. This variation is normal and not typically a cause for concern. If a baby hasn't developed any teeth by 18 months, parents should consult with a pediatrician or dentist to rule out any potential issues.
Important Considerations
- Once teeth begin to appear, it's essential to start gentle cleaning with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth to establish good oral hygiene habits early.
- Topical anesthetics, such as lidocaine-based teething gels, are not recommended due to concerns of toxicity and limited efficacy 2.
- The use of unsafe teething remedies, including teething necklaces and liquid-filled teething rings, is common but should be avoided due to the risk of adverse events, such as suffocation injuries and death 3.
- Non-pharmacological treatments, such as cold teething rings, may be effective in alleviating teething symptoms, but the certainty of the evidence is low 4.
Key Takeaways
- Baby teeth eruption typically starts around 6 months of age.
- Gentle cleaning with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth is essential for establishing good oral hygiene habits.
- Topical anesthetics and unsafe teething remedies should be avoided due to concerns of toxicity and adverse events.