When Do Babies Get Their First Teeth and How Should You Care for Them?

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“When will my baby’s first tooth appear?” is one of the most frequently asked questions by new parents. Teething is a natural part of a baby’s development — exciting, but sometimes challenging.

At Ayşe Erken Dental Clinic, we provide parents with clear and gentle guidance during this process and support healthy dental development from the very first tooth.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months of age, but this can vary widely. Some babies may start as early as 3 months, while others might not show any teeth until closer to 10 months — usually due to genetic differences.

Teething usually follows this general order:

Lower central incisors: 6–10 months
Upper central incisors: 8–12 months
Lateral incisors: 9–13 months
First molars: 13–19 months
Canines: 16–22 months
Second molars: 25–33 months

By the age of 3, most children will have a full set of 20 primary (baby) teeth.

Common Signs of Teething

Teething symptoms can vary, but here are the most common:

Swollen or itchy gums
Excessive drooling
Biting on fingers or toys
Mild fever (below 38°C / 100.4°F)
Loss of appetite
Irritability or trouble sleeping
Red or flushed cheeks
Occasional diaper rash or loose stool

We help parents understand which signs are normal and offer supportive solutions to ease their baby’s discomfort.

What Should You Do During Teething?

1. Use a Teething Toy

Cold (not frozen) teething rings made from BPA-free materials can soothe sore gums.

2. Cold Cloth Comfort

A clean, damp, and chilled washcloth can be gently pressed against the gums for relief.

3. Gentle Gum Massage

Using a clean finger or baby gum brush, you can gently massage the baby’s gums.

4. Manage Drooling

Wipe drool frequently to prevent skin irritation. Baby-safe barrier creams may help.

5. Choose Soothing Foods

If the baby is eating solids, offer soft, room-temperature foods like yogurt or purees.

6. Avoid Overmedicating

Always consult a pediatrician or dentist before using gels or medications. Each baby is different, and professional advice is key.

When Should Oral Care Begin?

Oral care starts with the first tooth, and here’s how:

Clean the tooth using a soft, damp cloth once it erupts
From age 1, use a baby toothbrush with soft bristles
Use a pea-sized amount of low-fluoride toothpaste after age 3 (or earlier if advised)
Brush twice daily — especially before bedtime

We educate families on age-appropriate brushing techniques and safe toothpaste options.

How to Protect Your Baby’s Dental Health

Avoid putting baby to sleep with a bottle — milk left in the mouth increases the risk of decay
Limit sugary snacks and drinks — avoid honey or sweetened pacifiers
Schedule regular dental check-ups — the first visit is recommended around age 1
Lead by example — let your baby see you brushing your teeth daily

Frequently Asked Questions

My baby is 12 months and still has no teeth. Is this normal?
Yes. Some babies are late teethers. You can wait up to 18 months, but after that, see a dentist for evaluation.

Does teething cause fever?
Mild fever (below 38°C) can happen, but high fever or diarrhea should not be assumed to be from teething. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist.

When should my baby visit the dentist for the first time?
The first dental check-up should be by age 1 or when the first tooth appears.

Conclusion: A Healthy Smile Begins in Babyhood

Your baby’s first tooth marks an important milestone — not just for their smile, but for their overall health. Proper care and awareness during teething can help set the foundation for a lifetime of oral well-being.

At Ayşe Erken Dental Clinic, we guide you through every stage of your child’s dental development — with gentle care and expert advice.

📞 Book your baby’s first dental check-up with us today. Let’s build healthy habits from the very first smile.