Babies First Teeth

Usually babies first teeth will begin to come through from about 6 months but, as with all other developmental stages, this can vary and whilst some babies will begin teething earlier others may not show signs of teething until they are 12 months or more. Girls will often begin teething earlier than boys.

It is important to know that babies first teeth are beginning to form even before he is born, in fact, from about 6 weeks after conception so mum needs to maintain a healthy and nutritious diet throughout her pregnancy. Baby’s permanent teeth will also be taking form before he is born.

Once baby does begin teething positive steps can be taken to make sure they are kept healthy and cavity free.

Signs of Teething

Generally, it is believed that teething is a very painful process, for baby and parents, however, this is not necessarily true and it can be very difficult to know exactly when baby is teething and when certain problems are caused by something else altogether.

If you notice baby is drooling far more than usual and this is accompanied by a loss of appetite for solids and an increase in his need for the breast or bottle this may indicate a sensitivity of his gums which could be inflamed due to his teeth coming through. On the other hand, if he pulls away from taking his feed this could indicate that the sucking action is causing discomfort to his gums or ear canals. Baby may pull at his ear during this stage.

Again, some babies find that chewing will actually relieve the discomfort to their gums and their appetite will increase. In such an instance baby will also possibly grind his gums together.

It is quite likely that any tooth eruption will take place during the night causing baby to be restless and irritable.

As a tooth begins to erupt it can cause the gum to become red and swollen, the gum may bulge or you may notice a small blister appear until the tooth finally emerges.

Usually the discomfort of a new tooth coming through will last about 4 days and it can be another 3 days before his gums are back to normal again, however, most of the discomfort will be during the actual time of eruption and will last no more than 2 days.

Teething Pattern

Generally, babies first teeth will come through in pairs with the lower central incisors being the first to arrive, followed by the upper two central incisors a couple of months later. However, the bottom four could just as easily arrive first.

At around 10 months the upper and lower lateral incisors will arrive and at about 14 months the first 4 molars. These in particular can cause a lot of discomfort and until they are through on both sides will make baby feel unbalanced in his mouth. At 18 months the canine teeth will come through and finally the second molars should be through by the time he is 2 years.

Helpful Tips to Sooth Baby’s Pain

If you are convinced that baby’s discomfort is due to teething then there are several ways in which you may help him:

Teething rings or teething biscuits can help if he seems to enjoy chewing on things. Teething rings which are chilled in the refrigerator can offer comfort or try a wet, frozen washcloth, with one end left dry for him to hold. It may be that simply massaging the sensitive gum area, providing the tooth has not caused any surface soreness, with a clean finger can take away the pain. There are teething gels available for example Anbesol or Bonjela but be careful not to use these too often. And finally, try to distract baby to take his mind off the discomfort of his tooth. A cuddle or a new toy and plenty of attention can work wonders.

Care of Babies First Teeth

It is strongly recommended that brushing baby’s teeth should commence as soon as they erupt. To begin with a finger wrapped in a facecloth can be used to wipe the tooth; introducing the use of a toothbrush as and when baby can tolerate it. Toothpaste need not be used at this stage.

Offering water as the main drink rather than fruit juices or sweet drinks will prevent early decay of babies first teeth. Do not let him comfort suck his bottle of formula but give him boiled and cooled water instead. Encourage him to use a feeding cup from about 6 months and discard the use of a bottle from 12 months. Do not put your child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or any other product that contains sugar as these can cause tooth decay.

For more information on teething Click babies first teeth