August 18, 2025
Watching your baby grow brings many milestones, and one of the most exciting is the arrival of their first teeth. While every child develops at their own pace, understanding when teeth come in and how long teething lasts can help you prepare and comfort your little one.
When Do Babies Start Getting Teeth?
Most babies get their first tooth around six months of age, although some may start as early as four months or as late as 12 months. The first teeth that usually come in are the two lower front teeth, followed by the upper front teeth. By around age three, most children have all 20 of their primary teeth.
If you live in Utah and need expert advice, you can always consult a pediatric dentist in West Jordan for guidance on how to care for your baby’s teeth from the very beginning.
Signs Your Baby is Teething
Teething can make babies uneasy, and the symptoms usually appear before the teeth come in. Common signs include:
- Increased drooling
- Chewing on toys, fingers, or clothing
- Irritability or fussiness
- Trouble sleeping
- Swollen or tender gums
Not every baby will experience all these symptoms, and the intensity can differ.
How Long Does Teething Last?
Teething isn’t a one-time event; it’s a process that takes place over several years. While individual teeth typically take about a week to fully emerge, the entire teething journey lasts from the first tooth’s arrival until the last baby molar, usually around age 3.
The most active periods of teething happen between 6 and 24 months. During this time, babies experience the most significant number of new teeth erupting. After age 2, teething symptoms often become less noticeable, even though molars are still coming in.
Tips to Soothe a Teething Baby
Helping your baby feel comfortable during teething makes the process easier for both of you. Here are some proven ways to relieve teething discomfort:
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Offer a clean, chilled teething ring or cold washcloth to soothe sore gums.
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Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger.
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Give your baby safe teething toys to chew on
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Offer cold, soft foods like applesauce or yogurt (if your baby has started solids)
Many parents also wonder about natural teething toys vs. gel teethers. Natural teething toys are often made from wood or silicone and give babies something safe to chew on, while gel teethers can provide extra cooling relief when chilled. Both options can help, but it’s important to choose products free from harmful chemicals and approved for infant use.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Even though they eventually fall out, baby teeth play a critical role in your child’s development. They help with chewing, speech development, and holding space for permanent teeth. Cavities in baby teeth can cause pain and even affect the health of adult teeth later on.
That’s why pediatric dentists recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit around their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Early visits help build a foundation for lifelong oral health and give parents practical advice on caring for baby teeth.
Preparing for the First Dental Visit
Every baby experiences teething differently, but understanding the process can help you support your child with confidence. Teething usually begins around six months, continues until about age three, and can cause a variety of mild symptoms. With the right soothing techniques and early dental care, you can keep your baby’s smile on track.
Schedule your child’s first dental visit today to give them the best start for lifelong oral health.