When babies are born, their mouths typically appear toothless. However, a full set of 20 primary teeth are already forming beneath the gums, preparing for their eventual emergence. While most infants begin to show their first teeth around six months of age, some are born with teeth or develop them very soon after.
Teeth Present at Birth or Soon After
A baby may be born with one or more teeth, known as natal teeth. Less commonly, teeth may erupt within the first 30 days of life, referred to as neonatal teeth. These early teeth are uncommon, with natal teeth occurring in approximately 1 out of every 2,000 to 3,500 newborns worldwide. They are most frequently found in the lower front gum area.
Natal and neonatal teeth can vary in appearance and structure. They may resemble normal baby teeth, but often they are smaller, conical, or discolored. Their enamel might be underdeveloped or thin, and roots can be poorly formed, potentially making the teeth loose. Some of these teeth are mature, while others are immature and may lack a complete structure.
The presence of these early teeth can lead to practical considerations for both the infant and caregiver. Issues include interference with feeding, particularly during breastfeeding, or the risk of the loose tooth detaching and being inhaled. If a tooth is very loose, sharp, or causes problems with feeding or tongue irritation, a healthcare provider might recommend its removal.
The Typical Journey of Baby Teeth
Most infants begin their teething journey with tooth eruption typically starting around six months of age. However, timing can vary, as some babies may get their first tooth as early as three or four months, while others might not show any until their first birthday or even later. By the time a child reaches about three years old, they generally have all 20 of their primary teeth.
The general order of tooth eruption usually begins with the two lower central incisors, followed by the two upper central incisors. Subsequently, the lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and finally the second molars emerge. While this sequence is common, individual timelines can differ.
As teeth begin to break through the gums, infants may experience teething symptoms. These can include increased drooling, fussiness, irritability, and a desire to chew on objects. The gums around the emerging tooth may appear red, swollen, or tender. While a slight increase in temperature can occur, high fever or diarrhea are not typical teething symptoms and warrant consultation with a healthcare provider.
Nurturing Your Baby’s Developing Smile
Establishing good oral hygiene practices from the earliest stages of life is beneficial for a baby’s developing teeth and gums. Even before the first tooth appears, gently clean your baby’s gums after feedings and before bedtime. Wipe them with a soft, damp cloth or gauze pad to remove milk residue and bacteria, and to accustom your baby to oral care routines.
Once the first tooth erupts, begin brushing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. Gently brush the teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bed. Supervision is important to ensure the correct amount of toothpaste is used and that the child eventually learns to spit it out.
Scheduling a baby’s first dental visit is another important step in nurturing their oral health. Dental professionals recommend this visit by the time the first tooth appears or no later than their first birthday. This early visit allows the dentist to check for proper tooth development, identify any potential issues, and provide personalized advice on ongoing oral care. Avoiding sugary drinks, including prolonged bottle feeding, is also important, as sugars can contribute to early tooth decay.