Is there anything cuter than a baby with a one-toothed smile? Understandably, the eruption of that first tooth is a happy event for many new parents. But what if you are waiting for the tooth to appear and there’s a delay? Here’s what could be going and when to get worried about baby teeth not coming in.
What is the usual age for baby teeth to come in?
The usual age for the first baby teeth to come in is between 6 and 12 months of age. However, every baby is different. Some babies are born with one or two teeth already erupted. Others may not have baby teeth come in until they’re much older.
Is it normal for a 1 year old to have no teeth?
It’s unusual but not abnormal for a 1 year old to have no teeth. Most babies have teeth by the time they are 9 months old. However, the age range when baby teeth come in is pretty wide and can be anywhere from 4 months to 15 months of age.
When to worry about baby teeth not coming in?
If your baby’s teeth have not come by age 18 months, make an appointment to see a pediatric dentist. This is a dental professional with specialized training who diagnoses and treats dental problems in babies, such as baby teeth not coming in or pacifier teeth.
Note that if your baby’s teeth do come in, you should schedule baby’s first dental visit by age 12 months or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting.
What causes a delay in baby teething?
There can be many possible causes for baby teeth not coming in. Delays are more common in premature babies and babies born with a low birth weight. Other causes of baby teeth not coming in on time can include poor nutrition or genetics. A dental professional will help you get to the bottom of it.
What makes teething faster?
You can use a clean finger to gently massage your baby’s gums. This will help to stimulate the teeth that are on the verge of emerging from the gums as well as reduce teething pain and other teething symptoms.
Very soon, your baby’s teeth will come in, your kid will have a full set of milk teeth, and you’ll have other questions on your mind, such as how many baby teeth do you lose and when do kids start losing teeth! Before you know it, your baby will be a toddler asking you questions about the tooth fairy!
If you are worried about baby teeth not coming in, make an appointment to see a family dentist. It is usually nothing to be overly concerned about and your dentist may simply recommend a wait-and-watch approach. Call Express Dentist today if you need help in finding a specialist pediatric dentist in your area.
About the author
Dr. Greg Grillo
Dr. Greg Grillo DDS studied at the University of Washington where he received a bachelors degree with Honors and later attended dental school on the same campus. Following school Dr. Greg served in the United States Navy as a dental officer. During this time he received advanced training in specialty areas of dentistry while also treating families of members of the military.
As well as sharing valuable information on dentistry and oral health, Dr. Greg remains a practicing dentist to this day. He works with families in the Okanogan Valley where he lives with his wife and three children.
