Teeth Timeline: Age-Specific Relief Strategies for Growing Babies

Teething is a natural part of your baby’s development, but it can come with challenges. Knowing what to expect at each stage helps parents stay prepared — and gives your child the comfort they need.

Teething by Age *****THESE ARE AVERAGES! MY SON CHARLIE DID NOT GET HIS FIRST TOOTH UNTIL 8 MONTHS OLD AND IS STILL LATE WITH TEETH COMING IN – EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT! *****

4–7 Months:
Lower front teeth (central incisors) usually come in first. Expect lots of drooling and chewing. 

8–12 Months:
Top front teeth appear. Your baby may experience sore, swollen gums.

12–16 Months:
First molars erupt — often more painful than earlier teeth. Try cold foods or silicone teethers.

16–20 Months:
Canines (pointed teeth) begin to erupt. Look for increased fussiness.

20–30 Months:
Second molars arrive. This final teething phase may disrupt sleep the most.

Tips for Every Stage

• Massage sore gums with a clean finger
  
  
• Offer chilled (not frozen) teething toys
  
  
• Begin brushing once the first tooth appears. Brushing should be done morning and night. Stick to water after brushing at night!
  
  
• Flossing should begin once teeth start touching
  
  

When to Visit the Dentist

Your child’s first dental visit should happen by their first birthday, or within 6 months of their first tooth erupting. At Tooth Buds Pediatric Dentistry, we’ll check tooth development and help you through every stage of teething.