Is Late Teething a Problem?

Teething is a significant milestone in a child’s development, and many parents eagerly anticipate that first tooth. However, when a baby’s teeth don’t appear as expected, parents may wonder if delayed teething is a cause for concern. Let’s take a closer look at what’s considered normal in teething timelines, potential reasons for delays, and when it might be time to consult a dentist.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), babies generally start teething between 4 to 12 months of age, with the two lower front teeth (central incisors) typically being the first to emerge. By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 primary (baby) teeth. Here’s a general timeline:

• 6-12 months: Lower front teeth appear
• 8-13 months: Upper front teeth and surrounding teeth emerge
• 13-19 months: First molars begin to erupt
• 16-23 months: Canine (cuspid) teeth come in
• 23-33 months: Second molars appear

While this is a typical schedule, each child’s development is unique, and many experience variations in the timing of their teeth. Some children may get their first tooth later than 12 months without any underlying issues.

SEE ALSO: What to Do If Your Child Knocks Out a Baby Tooth

There are a few common factors that may contribute to delayed teething:

1. Genetics: Just as genetics play a role in height and other developmental milestones, they can also influence teething. If a parent had a late teething pattern, their child might experience similar timing.
   
2. Nutritional Factors: Nutrient intake, especially calcium and vitamin D, is essential for proper dental and bone development. Although rare in developed countries, nutritional deficiencies can sometimes contribute to delayed teething.
   
3. Premature Birth or Low Birth Weight: Babies born prematurely or with low birth weight may experience delays in various developmental milestones, including teething.
   
4. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, like hypothyroidism or Down syndrome, may be associated with delayed teething. However, these cases are relatively uncommon.
   

The ADA and AAPD recommend a dental checkup by a child’s first birthday, regardless of whether teeth have emerged. This visit allows a pediatric dentist to assess the health of the gums, discuss developmental milestones, and address any parental concerns.

If your child hasn’t shown any signs of teething by 18 months, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatric dentist. While late teething is often just a variation of normal, an exam can help rule out any potential issues.

Even before teeth appear, it’s essential to care for your child’s gums. Here are some of our recommendations:

1. Clean the gums: Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe your baby’s gums after feedings. This helps reduce bacteria and prepares them for future oral care.
   
2. Brush the teeth: Once the first tooth appears, brush twice a day with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) for children under three.
   
3. Schedule dental visits: Every child should have their first dental visit by age one. This allows the dentist to monitor growth and development, address teething concerns, and provide guidance on healthy oral habits.
   
4. Maintain a balanced diet: Ensure that your child receives adequate calcium and vitamin D through their diet to support bone and tooth development.
   

SEE ALSO: What Are the Common Bite Problems in Children?

At Harmony Medical Center, we’re here to support your child’s oral health journey, from their very first tooth to a lifetime of healthy smiles. If you have concerns about delayed teething or any other dental issues, our team of experienced pediatric dentists is ready to help.

Remember, every child is unique, and so is their teething timeline. With the right guidance and care, you can support your child’s healthy dental development, no matter when their teeth decide to arrive.