Baby teeth may be small, but they play a big role in your child’s development. From helping your little one chew and speak, to guiding the adult teeth into place—those tiny teeth are more important than many parents realise.
Whether you’re expecting your first child or navigating teething with your toddler, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about baby teeth and how to care for them.
What You’ll Learn in This Blog:
- When baby teeth appear (and fall out)
- The stages of teething
- How to care for baby teeth from day one
- When to see a dentist
- Common concerns parents have—and what to do
When Do Baby Teeth Come In?
Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months, though some arrive earlier or later. By age 3, most children will have a full set of 20 baby teeth (also called primary teeth).
Here’s a rough guide to when teeth erupt:
- 6–10 months: Lower front teeth
- 8–12 months: Upper front teeth
- 9–16 months: Side teeth (incisors)
- 13–19 months: First molars
- 16–23 months: Canines
- 23–33 months: Second molars
The Teething Stage
Teething can be uncomfortable for babies—and stressful for parents. Signs your baby may be teething include:
- Drooling
- Irritability or fussiness
- Chewing on fingers or toys
- Red, swollen gums
- Trouble sleeping
To help soothe your teething baby:
- Offer a cold teething ring or clean, damp cloth to chew on
- Gently rub their gums with a clean finger
- Cuddle and comfort your baby often
- Speak with your dentist or doctor before using teething gels or medications
How to Care for Baby Teeth
Good oral hygiene starts early—even before the first tooth comes through.
👶 Before Teeth Appear:
- Wipe baby’s gums daily with a clean, damp cloth
🦷 After the First Tooth Appears:
- Brush twice a day with a soft baby toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste
- Help your child brush until at least age 6
- Avoid letting baby fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice (this can lead to decay)
- Encourage drinking from a cup by 12 months
First Dental Visit: When and Why
The first dental visit should happen by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing. This visit is all about:
- Checking teeth and gums are developing normally
- Answering your questions about teething, brushing, and feeding
- Making your child feel comfortable at the dentist early on
Regular visits every 6 to 12 months will help prevent issues and build positive habits.
Common Concerns About Baby Teeth
❓ “They’re just baby teeth—do they really matter?”
Yes! Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth, help with speech, and allow proper chewing and nutrition.
❓ “What if my child’s teeth are crooked?”
It’s common for baby teeth to appear uneven. Your dentist will monitor spacing and development over time.
❓ “My child chipped a baby tooth—do we need to fix it?”
Yes, it’s best to get any injury checked to prevent pain, infection, or problems with adult teeth underneath.
Baby teeth are the building blocks of your child’s lifelong oral health. With early care, regular dental visits, and healthy habits at home, you can set your little one up for a bright and healthy smile.