Like with a baby’s first step or their first word, a child’s first tooth is an exciting development! When exactly this happens varies from child to child.
Average Timeframe for a Baby’s First Tooth
As with many other pediatric developments, rather than an exact age, there’s a timeframe for when your child’s first tooth will come in. You can expect each type of tooth (incisors, canines, premolars, and molars) to come in at a different age range, with the molars making their appearance last. Most babies develop their first tooth (usually one of the lower front teeth, called the central incisors) between six months old and one year old. However, your baby may get their first tooth even earlier.
Babies Born with Teeth
Did you know that some babies are actually born with one or more teeth? Although uncommon, it can happen! These teeth are called natal teeth, and they can occur due to a variety of reasons, including certain medical conditions. Sometimes these natal teeth are loose and don’t have any roots, in which case your doctor may recommend getting them removed so there’s less risk of choking, feeding issues, or other injuries.
What to Do When Your Baby Gets Their First Tooth
It’s time to schedule your baby’s first appointment at the dentist once their first tooth emerges or by their first birthday. While it might seem premature since there’s only one tooth, early dental care has several benefits. For example, your child’s dentist can answer any questions you may have about caring for your child’s growing smile. They can make sure your child’s mouth is growing normally. And helping your child have positive experiences with the dentist when they are young can reduce their risk of developing dental anxiety later on.
You should also begin brushing your child’s teeth at least once a day as soon as they emerge! Use a child-sized toothbrush and a tiny dot of toothpaste no bigger than the size of a grain of rice.
Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit!
Is it time to schedule a dental visit for your little one? Contact Storybook Smiles Children’s Dentistry today! We’d love to welcome your child into our Tyler pediatric dental office and help them enjoy a lifetime of positive oral health.
