When Do Babies’ Teeth Come Through? A Month-by-Month Teething Guide
Teething is one of the biggest milestones in early childhood. It often brings excitement, a few unsettled nights, and plenty of questions from many parents. A common query we hear is "when do babies teeth come through, and what should you expect at each stage?"
Every child is different. Some babies start teething earlier or later than others, and that’s completely normal. This introductory month-by-month guide explains when baby teeth typically erupt, what teething symptoms look like, and how to care for your child’s baby teeth from the very beginning.
Understanding Baby Teeth and Tooth Development
Before diving into timelines, it helps to understand what baby teeth actually are.
Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, milk teeth, or deciduous teeth, are the first set of teeth your child develops. These teeth eventually fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth (also referred to as adult teeth or secondary teeth).
Most children will have a complete set of 20 primary teeth by the time they reach three years of age. These include:
- 4 central incisors
- 4 lateral incisors
- 4 first molars
- 4 second molars
- 4 canines
Even though they eventually fall out, child’s baby teeth are extremely important for:
- Chewing and digestion
- Speech development (helping a child speak properly)
- Guiding permanent teeth into position
- Supporting healthy jaw growth
When Do Baby Teeth Come in? The Complete Timeline
Teeth don’t usually appear all at once. Instead, they erupt gradually over the first few years. Here’s a month-by-month overview.
0–3 Months Old: Early Gum Changes
During the first few months of age, teeth are already developing beneath the gum line, even though nothing is visible yet.
You may notice:
- Increased drooling
- Baby chewing on hands
- Slight fussiness
- Mild gum swelling
At this stage, teeth begin forming under the surface. Babies start preparing for their first tooth well before it becomes visible.
4–6 Months Old: Babies Start Teething
Most babies start teething between four and six months old. This is when the bottom front teeth known as the lower central incisors usually erupt first.
Common teething symptoms include:
- Sore, tender gums
- Irritability
- Mild teething pain
- Drooling
- Desire to chew on teething toys or teething rings
A slight fever may occasionally occur, but a high fever or significant illness is unlikely to be caused by teething alone. If you’re concerned, speak to a dentist or healthcare provider.
6–10 Months Old: First Teeth Appear
This is when baby’s first tooth typically appears. The bottom front teeth are followed by the upper central incisors.
By around 10 months old, many babies have:
- Two bottom front teeth
- Two top front teeth
These front teeth are essential for biting into soft foods and supporting speech development.
At this point, it’s time to begin brushing. Use:
- A small, soft-bristled toothbrush
- A smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice)
- Brush twice a day
9–13 Months Old: Lateral Incisors
Next to appear are the lateral incisors, located beside the central incisors.
By their first birthday, most babies have four to eight teeth. This is also a good time to book your child’s first dental visit. Many pediatric associates and dental association guidelines suggest a dental check by the first birthday.
12–16 Months Old: First Molars
The first molars erupt at the back of the mouth in both the upper jaw and lower jaw.
Molars can cause more noticeable teething pain because they are larger teeth. You might see:
- Increased night waking
- More drooling
- Red, swollen gums
Offer safe teething toys and gently massage the gums with a clean finger to ease discomfort.
16–20 Months Old: Canines
The canine teeth, located between incisors and molars, usually erupt during this period.
Teeth appear gradually, and some children experience minimal symptoms. Others may show:
- Tender gums
- Fussiness
- Changes in appetite
Remember, every child’s dental development follows its own pace.
20–33 Months Old: Second Molars
The final teeth to erupt are the second molars.
By around age three, most children have a complete set of 20 baby teeth. These teeth will eventually fall out to make way for permanent teeth that begin erupting around the age of six years old.
What Is the Average Age for a Baby's First Teeth to Come In?
The average age for baby’s first tooth is around six months old. However, some babies start teething as early as four months old, while others may not see their first tooth until closer to 10 months old.
Earlier or later eruption is usually nothing to worry about unless there are no teeth by 18 months old. In that case, it is recommended to consult a dentist.
What Are the First Signs of Teething?
The first signs often include:
- Drooling
- Chewing on fingers or toys
- Swollen baby’s gums
- Irritability
- Disturbed sleep
Contrary to popular belief, severe symptoms are not typical. Mild discomfort is common, but ongoing illness should be assessed separately.
What Is the 7-4 Rule for Tooth Eruption?
The 7-4 rule is a simple guide many parents use:
- By 7 months old – around 4 teeth
- By 11 months old – around 8 teeth
- By 15 months old – around 12 teeth
- By 19 months old – around 16 teeth
- By 23 months old – around 20 teeth
This is only an estimate. Most babies follow their own rhythm.
What Age Is Teething the Worst?
Teething discomfort often peaks when:
- Molars erupt
- Several teeth erupt close together
For many parents, the first molars (around 12–16 months old) feel the most challenging. However, most children adjust quickly.
Safe Ways to Relieve Teething Pain
To manage teething pain safely:
- Offer chilled (not frozen) teething rings
- Use firm rubber teething toys
- Gently massage gums with a clean finger
- Gently rub along the gum line
Avoid amber teething necklaces due to safety concerns. Use teething gels cautiously and seek professional advice before using them.
Brushing and Fluoride Toothpaste Guidance
Once teeth erupt, begin brushing twice a day.
For under three years old:
- Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste
From age three to six years old:
- Use a pea sized amount
Encourage spitting, but avoid rinsing with too much water to keep fluoride on the teeth longer.
Tap water in many areas contains fluoride, which supports strong enamel. This aligns with guidance from professional dental association standards and the American Dental Association.
Preventing Tooth Decay Early
Tooth decay can begin as soon as teeth come.
To reduce the risk of tooth decay:
- Avoid putting baby to bed with milk
- Limit sugary drinks
- Encourage water between meals
- Clean teeth after the last feed
- Wipe gums gently with a clean cloth before teeth erupt
Healthy habits early protect both primary teeth and future permanent teeth.
When Do Permanent Teeth Begin?
Permanent teeth begin erupting around the age of six years old, starting with:
- Lower central incisors
- First permanent molars
Primary teeth eventually fall out through natural tooth loss as adult teeth develop underneath.
Baby's First Tooth: 7 Facts Parents Should Know
- Teeth begin developing before birth.
- Most babies start teething around six months old.
- Bottom front teeth usually come first.
- A complete set of 20 baby teeth develops by the age of three years old.
- Baby teeth are essential for speech and jaw growth.
- Tooth development varies widely between children.
- Early dental care supports lifelong oral health.
When to See a Pediatric Dentist
Book a dental visit:
- By the first birthday
- Within six months of the first tooth emerging
A pediatric dentist can:
- Assess a child’s teeth development
- Provide brushing guidance
- Check for early signs of tooth decay
- Offer reassurance
Regular check-ups create positive dental experiences early on.
Supporting Healthy Tooth Development
Encourage:
- Balanced nutrition
- Limited sugary snacks
- Regular brushing twice a day
- Routine dental visits
Current research suggests early preventive care may contribute to stronger enamel and reduced decay risk later in childhood.
Final Thoughts on Teething
Teething is a natural and temporary stage. While some days may feel long, remember that teeth erupt gradually and most children adjust well.
If you’ve been wondering when do babies teeth come through, the short answer is typically between four and ten months old for the first teeth, with a full set by around the age of three years old.
Every child is unique. Trust your instincts, maintain consistent oral care, and seek professional advice if something feels unusual.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not replace professional dental or medical advice. Always consult a qualified dentist or healthcare provider regarding concerns about your child’s dental development or health. Individual experiences may vary.