Is My 10-Month-Old's Teething Normal? Concerns About Baby Teeth Growth

Teething issues in infants?

Hello Doctor: My daughter is currently 10 months old and has only one tooth growing on her lower jaw.
Is this development normal? Isn't it typical for two teeth to come in at once? The tooth she has is also a bit crooked; will this affect the alignment of her other teeth? Thank you.

ann, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/03/31

Dr. Qiu Qiongyao reply Dentistry

1.
The timing of dental development in children varies from person to person; some develop teeth quickly while others do so slowly, which is related to calcium nutrition.
2.
Let's observe further to see if the other incisor has erupted! If it has, it will gradually adjust itself.

Reply Date: 2007/03/31

More Info

Teething in infants is a significant milestone that can vary widely among children. It is generally expected that babies will begin to develop their first teeth around six months of age, but this can range from as early as four months to as late as twelve months. By the time a child is one year old, they typically have about four to six teeth, although some may have more or less. Your concern regarding your 10-month-old daughter having only one tooth is understandable, but it is important to note that this can still fall within the normal range of development.

The timing and sequence of tooth eruption can differ significantly from one child to another. While it is common for infants to cut multiple teeth at once, it is not unusual for some to experience a slower progression. The first teeth to emerge are usually the lower central incisors, followed by the upper central incisors. If your daughter has only one tooth at ten months, it does not necessarily indicate a problem, but it is advisable to monitor her dental development.

Regarding the concern about the tooth being "crooked," it is important to remember that many factors can influence the alignment of teeth as they emerge. Baby teeth, or primary teeth, are often not perfectly aligned when they first come in. As more teeth erupt, they can help guide the positioning of the existing teeth. It is also common for baby teeth to appear slightly misaligned, but this often corrects itself as the child grows and more teeth come in. If the misalignment persists or worsens, consulting a pediatric dentist can provide guidance and reassurance.

In terms of dental health, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene even at this early stage. Gently wiping your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth can help reduce the risk of cavities and promote healthy dental development. Once the first tooth appears, you can start brushing it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).

If you have concerns about your daughter's teething process or overall dental development, it is recommended to schedule a visit with a pediatric dentist. They can assess her dental health, provide personalized advice, and address any specific concerns you may have. Regular dental check-ups are essential, even for infants, as they can help identify any potential issues early on.

In summary, while your daughter's teething pattern may seem slow, it can still be within the normal range of development. The presence of one tooth at ten months is not uncommon, and slight misalignment is often temporary. Maintaining good oral hygiene and consulting with a pediatric dentist can help ensure her dental health as she continues to grow.

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