When Do Baby Teeth Come In?
Teething is one of those parenting milestones that tests your patience and your heart simultaneously. Your baby is in discomfort, you are losing sleep, and you are wondering if this timeline is normal. The good news is that teething follows a fairly predictable pattern — most babies get their first tooth around 6 months and have a full set of 20 by age 3. Here is exactly what to expect and how to help.
Every baby teethes on their own schedule. The order below is typical, but some babies get their first tooth at 4 months while others wait until 12 months. Both are normal. If no teeth have appeared by 18 months, talk to your pediatric dentist.
The Teething Timeline
| Teeth | Upper | Lower |
|---|---|---|
| Central Incisors (front) | 8-12 months | 6-10 months |
| Lateral Incisors (next to front) | 9-13 months | 10-16 months |
| First Molars | 13-19 months | 14-18 months |
| Canines (eye teeth) | 16-22 months | 17-23 months |
| Second Molars | 25-33 months | 23-31 months |
Signs Your Baby Is Teething
- Excessive drooling — more than usual, often soaking through bibs
- Chewing on everything — fingers, toys, your shoulder, anything they can reach
- Swollen, red gums — you may see a bluish-white bump where the tooth is pushing through
- Irritability and fussiness — especially in the days right before a tooth breaks through
- Disrupted sleep — the discomfort often worsens at night when there are fewer distractions
- Pulling at ears — referred pain from the gums can cause ear discomfort
- Mild fever (under 100.4°F) — slight temperature elevation is common but high fever is NOT caused by teething
High fever, diarrhea, and rash are NOT symptoms of teething despite common belief. If your baby has a fever over 100.4°F, contact your pediatrician — they may be sick with something unrelated to teething.
Time for Baby's First Dental Visit?
The AAP recommends a dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth.
How to Soothe a Teething Baby
Cold washcloth or teething ring
Chill a clean, damp washcloth in the fridge (not freezer) for 30 minutes. The cold numbs sore gums and the texture provides counter-pressure. Refrigerated teething rings work the same way.
Gum massage
Wash your hands and gently rub your baby's gums with a clean finger. The pressure feels good to them and it is free, always available, and completely safe.
Teething toys
Solid silicone teethers are safest. Avoid liquid-filled teethers (they can leak) and anything small enough to be a choking hazard. Mesh feeders filled with cold fruit let older babies self-soothe.
Pain relief (when needed)
Infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (for babies 6+ months) can help on rough nights. Follow dosing instructions carefully. Avoid numbing gels with benzocaine for children under 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for teeth to come in out of order?
Should I brush my baby's first teeth?
When should my baby see a dentist?
Are amber teething necklaces safe?
Give Your Baby a Healthy Start
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Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Saam Zarrabi, DDSFounder & CEO
Founder & CEO of Rodeo Dental with 18+ years of experience. UCLA and Pacific Dental School graduate.
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