When Do Babies Start Teething? Signs, Symptoms, and What to Expect - Dentistry

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Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask, when do infants typically start teething? My baby is already over 7 months old and hasn't started yet.
I've heard that the earliest can be as early as 4 months.
What is the latest age by which they usually begin to teeth? How should I monitor for signs that he is starting to teeth? Do teething infants experience discomfort, such as crying frequently or biting on things?

Hui Di, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/03/16

Dr. Qiu Qiongyao reply Dentistry


Hello, Huidi: The timing of tooth eruption in children varies from person to person.
Typically, it begins around 6 months of age, with a normal range of plus or minus 3 months.
By the age of 2 and a half years, all primary teeth should be fully erupted.
During the teething period, children may experience discomfort such as fever and gum irritation.
If a child enjoys biting on things, you can offer them teething biscuits as a substitute for other foods to help with the teething process.

Reply Date: 2009/03/16

More Info


Teething is an important developmental milestone for infants, typically beginning between 4 to 7 months of age, although some babies may start teething as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. The first teeth to emerge are usually the lower central incisors, followed by the upper central incisors, and then the lateral incisors, canines, and molars in that order. By the time a child is about 3 years old, they should have a complete set of 20 primary teeth.

As for your 7-month-old daughter, it is not uncommon for some infants to experience delays in teething. Each child is unique, and there is a wide range of normal when it comes to the timing of tooth eruption. If your daughter has not yet started teething, it is generally not a cause for concern unless she is significantly older than 12 months without any teeth. If you have concerns about her development, it is always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician.

When babies begin to teethe, they may exhibit several signs and symptoms. Common indicators include:
1. Increased Drooling: Teething often stimulates saliva production, leading to drooling. You might notice your baby’s clothes becoming wet more frequently.

2. Chewing and Gnawing: Babies may chew on their fingers, toys, or other objects to relieve the pressure and discomfort associated with teething.

3. Irritability and Fussiness: The discomfort of teething can make babies more irritable than usual. They may cry more often or seem more restless.

4. Swollen Gums: You may notice that your baby’s gums appear swollen or red in the area where the tooth is about to emerge.

5. Changes in Sleep Patterns: Some babies may have difficulty sleeping due to the discomfort of teething, leading to more frequent awakenings at night.

6. Loss of Appetite: Teething can cause discomfort while eating, leading some babies to eat less or refuse certain foods.

7. Rubbing of the Ears or Cheeks: Babies may rub their ears or cheeks as a response to the discomfort they feel in their gums.

While teething can be uncomfortable, it is important to note that it should not cause severe distress or high fever. If your baby has a fever above 100.4°F (38°C), diarrhea, or other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, as these may indicate an illness unrelated to teething.

To help soothe your baby during this time, you can try several strategies:
- Teething Toys: Provide safe, soft teething toys for your baby to chew on. Some parents find that chilled (not frozen) teething rings can be soothing.

- Gum Massage: Gently massaging your baby's gums with a clean finger can provide relief.

- Cold Washcloth: A clean, damp washcloth that has been chilled in the refrigerator can be a soothing option for your baby to chew on.

- Pain Relief: If your baby seems particularly uncomfortable, consult your pediatrician about the use of over-the-counter pain relief options, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, which can be appropriate for infants over a certain age.

In summary, teething is a natural process that varies from child to child. While your daughter has not yet started teething at 7 months, it is within the range of normal development. Keep an eye out for the signs of teething, and consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns about her dental development or overall health.

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