AS PARENTS, EVERY milestone a new baby reaches is incredibly exciting, and sometimes we can get impatient and even start worrying long before we should. To get out in front of that tendency, let’s lay out the average schedule of baby teeth development and eruption.

Baby Teeth Development and Eruption

The process of growing teeth (called odontogenesis) begins in week six of pregnancy and continues after the teeth have begun erupting because the roots still have some growing and developing to do. Babies typically get their primary bottom front teeth (central incisors) somewhere between six and ten months old. Next are usually the top front teeth between months eight and twelve. After that, they get their upper primary lateral incisors, then the bottom primary lateral incisors.

You might expect the canines to be next, but nope! Next up are the upper and lower first baby molars, and only then is it time for the primary canines. Completing the set of baby teeth is the second set of baby molars, which will usually arrive by age three.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlbQuJuCS8Q

What If My Child’s Teeth Are Behind Schedule?

There is no need to worry if baby teeth seem slow to arrive, but if there still are not any by the 18-month mark, a dentist should take a look. No matter whether teeth are early or late, though, bring them to the dentist once the first tooth erupts!

Start Brushing Them As Soon As You See Them!

Teeth need daily brushing even when they are brand new, and it is great to start establishing good brushing habits early and flossing habits as soon as they have two teeth that touch. If children are used to the routine, they will be more prepared to continue these essential habits themselves for a lifetime of healthy teeth.

We love every member of our Orchard of Smiles Orthodontics practice family! Please do not hesitate to reach out or call us if you have any questions. We always strive to be a resource for our community members!