A Guide to Teeth Milestones for Newborns, Infants, and Young Children

As parents, you celebrate every milestone in your child's life, from their first smile to their first steps. One of the most exciting and sometimes challenging milestones is the appearance of your child's first teeth. At Kids Dental Spot, we’re here to help you understand when to expect these teeth to arrive, what’s normal during this time, and what to do if your child’s teeth don’t seem to be on track.

When to Expect Teeth to Arrive

Newborns to 6 Months:

• Teething Signs Begin: While your newborn won’t have visible teeth at birth, you might start noticing signs of teething around 4 to 6 months. These can include drooling, a desire to chew on objects, and some fussiness.

6 to 12 Months:

• First Teeth Emerge: The first teeth usually appear around 6 months. The lower front teeth (central incisors) are typically the first to come through, followed closely by the upper front teeth. By the time your child is a year old, they may have around four to eight teeth.

12 to 18 Months:

• Molars and Canines Start Coming In: After the front teeth, your child’s molars will begin to appear, usually around 12 to 14 months. These are followed by the canines, which typically come in between 16 and 18 months. By 18 months, many children will have around eight to twelve teeth.

18 to 36 Months:

• All Baby Teeth Are In Place: By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 baby teeth. This is a big step in their oral development and a great time to reinforce good brushing habits.

What to Expect During These Stages

• Teething Discomfort: Teething can cause discomfort for your little one. Common signs include swollen gums, irritability, and changes in eating or sleeping habits. You can help soothe their gums with a gentle massage or a cool, safe teething toy.

• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday, or within six months after their first tooth appears. Early visits help ensure their teeth are developing properly and allow us to offer tips on caring for their new smile.

What If Your Child Doesn’t Meet These Milestones?

It’s important to remember that every child is different, and there’s a wide range of what’s considered normal when it comes to teething. However, if your child hasn’t shown signs of their first tooth by 12 months, or if their teeth don’t follow the typical pattern, it’s a good idea to consult with us.

• Delayed Teething: If your child’s teeth are taking longer to emerge, it’s usually not a cause for concern. However, we can check to ensure everything is progressing normally and provide guidance if any issues arise.

• Missing Teeth or Unusual Patterns: If your child’s teeth come in out of order or some teeth seem to be missing, we might recommend an examination or X-rays to assess their dental development and rule out any concerns.

Supporting Your Child Through Teething

• Oral Hygiene from the Start: Even before teeth emerge, you can start cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth. Once the first tooth appears, begin brushing twice daily with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.

• Healthy Eating Habits: Encourage a diet that supports strong teeth, including foods rich in calcium. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks can help prevent cavities from an early age.

• Consistent Dental Care: Regular dental visits allow us to keep an eye on your child’s dental health and provide preventive care to ensure their teeth stay healthy as they grow.

At Kids Dental Spot, we know how important it is to ensure your child’s teeth develop correctly. If you ever have concerns about your child’s teeth milestones, we’re here to help with expert advice and compassionate care. Together, we can make sure your child’s smile stays bright and healthy through every stage of their development.

Kids Dental Spot is a dental office focused providing services to pediatric patients in Anaheim, California serving kids, children, infants and adolescents in the heart of Orange County serving nearby neighborhoods, such as: Fullerton, Brea, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Buena Park, Placentia, and Orange.

Written and Medically Reviewed by Dr. Atiya Bahmanyar, DDS (Doctorate of Dental Surgery)