Teething, or the time when a baby's first teeth emerge or "cut" through the gums, is a necessary, yet sometimes stressful, time for parents and baby. Some babies go through this phase with no apparent discomfort while other babies are awakened throughout the night by pain. While all babies are different, a general tooth growth timeline and tips about caring for your baby will give the whole family something to smile about.
Natal Teeth
While most babies' teeth don't appear until a few months after birth, all babies' teeth develop when they are still in the womb. On rare occasions, babies are born with one to two teeth or start to grow them within a couple weeks of birth. These teeth, called natal teeth, are not always problematic. Sometimes they can cause trouble with feeding or become loose and present a choking hazard. Natal teeth are often extra teeth that can be removed, but that aspect needs to be confirmed before any procedures are done.
Stages of Growth
Some babies get their first teeth at around three months of age while others may not get their first pearly whites until age 1. For most babies, the first teeth---typically the front bottom two---begin to grow in between four and seven months of age. The four front upper teeth will generally grow in one or two months later. About month after that, the two teeth around the front bottom two may appear. The first molars grow in between 10 and 16 months and the second molars grow in between 20 and 30 months. Most children will have an entire set of 20 baby teeth by age 3.
Symptoms
Some common symptoms of teething are drooling, fussiness, swelling of the gums, feeding problems, sleep interruptions and biting. Other symptoms such as diarrhea and fever plague many babies but there is no general consensus as to whether these symptoms are a direct product of the teeth growing in.
Reducing Discomfort
BabyCenter.com recommends giving your baby something to chew on such as a cold washcloth or a teething ring. Babies who are of the appropriate age to eat solid foods may be soothed by cold yogurt, applesauce and teething crackers. Other ways to help soothe baby's gums are to rub them with a clean finger. If your baby seems to be exhibiting symptoms that are unbearable without medication, talk to a pediatrician to find out what she thinks is suitable. Topical gels and baby acetaminophen may be helpful.
Dental Hygiene
Take some steps to take care of your baby's new teeth. As soon as you see the first tooth come in, use a bit of water on it to brush it. Only begin to use toothpaste when you know your child is old enough to spit it out (typically at around age 3). Use child toothpaste that contains fluoride and only add a dollop about the size of a pea to the toothbrush at least twice per day. Daily dental care should begin even before your baby's first tooth emerges. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your baby's first visit to the dentist occur by age 1, or within six months after he gets his first tooth. A dentist can give you tips on helping your child brush and floss.
