Teething, the process where primary teeth emerge through the gums, is a natural milestone in a baby’s development. This process typically begins around six months of age, though the timing can vary significantly from child to child. The initial appearance of a baby’s first tooth marks the start of the journey toward a full set of 20 primary teeth. While there is a common sequence for how these teeth emerge, the exact timing and order are unique to each infant. The entire set of baby teeth is usually complete by the time a child reaches three years old.
The Standard Eruption Sequence
The progression of primary tooth eruption often follows a predictable pattern, which dental professionals use as a baseline for monitoring development. The first teeth to appear are most often the mandibular (lower) central incisors, typically emerging between six and ten months of age.
Following the lower centrals, the maxillary (upper) central incisors usually appear next, generally between eight and twelve months. The subsequent teeth are the lateral incisors, located immediately beside the central incisors. The upper laterals typically precede the lower ones, appearing between nine and thirteen months, with the bottom laterals following between ten and sixteen months. This standard sequence continues with the first molars, then the canines, and finally the second molars.
Variation in Teething Order
The question of whether a baby can get a lateral incisor first addresses the reality of natural variation in development. The answer is yes; while the central incisors are the most common first teeth, variations in the eruption sequence are frequent and generally do not signify a problem. It is considered medically acceptable for a lateral incisor, or even occasionally a molar, to be the first tooth to break through the gum line.
This deviation from the typical pattern is often influenced by factors such as genetics, where a child may follow a timeline similar to their parents. Jaw growth patterns can also play a role; if the central area of the gum is more resistant, a tooth slightly to the side may find an earlier path. The exact sequence of eruption is less important than the ultimate presence and health of all 20 primary teeth. A non-standard order is simply considered a normal variation of development.
When to Consult a Pediatric Dentist
While a variation in the order of eruption is rarely a concern, certain signs warrant a professional consultation with a pediatric dentist. The consensus among dental organizations is that a baby should have their first dental visit either when the first tooth appears or no later than the first birthday. This initial visit allows the dentist to establish a dental home and monitor the child’s oral development.
A consultation is recommended if a baby has not erupted any teeth by 12 to 13 months of age, as this is considered a significant delay. No teeth by 18 months warrants a more thorough examination to rule out potential underlying medical or nutritional issues. Parents should also seek professional guidance if they notice signs of infection, such as severe gum swelling, or if the teeth are emerging with severe discoloration or an unusually crooked appearance. The dentist can then assess the situation and provide personalized guidance on the baby’s unique dental timeline.