As a parent, one of the anticipated milestones you may eagerly wait for is your baby’s first tooth to appear. However, when it does not happen “on time,” it’s natural to wonder if something is wrong. Late teething in babies is more common than you might think, and in most cases, it’s nothing to worry about.
Still, knowing the basics about teething can help you stay calm, informed, and ready to support your child as their little teeth come through. Here at Clarity Dental, we want our patients and parents to be fully aware of how to care for their and their child’s teeth.
We understand how important it is for you to feel at peace about your baby’s dental development by knowing when teething starts, why some baby teeth come in late, and what signs to look out for.
When Do Babies Start Teething?
Every parent should understand that every baby is unique in their own way, and sometimes, the development of their teeth may not be the same as that of other children. Paediatricians say that most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months of age—this is the time when the first set of baby teeth, or primary teeth, start to push through the gums.
It often begins with the lower front teeth (central incisors), followed by the upper front teeth. By the time your child turns 3 years old, they will likely have all 20 primary teeth fully grown.
However, some babies may start teething earlier, while others might not show any teeth until after their first birthday. Do not be alarmed because that’s still considered normal in many cases because of different factors, like their genetics, overall health, and other considerations.
Signs of Teething in Babies
It can be tricky to tell whether your baby is teething or just having a fussy day—we understand that, as many parents and guardians also say the same thing when their child starts teething.
Here are some of the common signs of teething in babies:
- Red, swollen gums
- Drooling more than usual
- Irritability or fussiness
- Trouble sleeping
- Chewing on fingers, toys, or anything they can find
- Slight rise in temperature (not a fever)
- Pulling at the ears or rubbing the cheeks
If your baby shows one or more of these signs, and they’re around the age when babies usually begin teething, it could mean their first tooth is on its way.
But what if the signs are there, yet no tooth shows up for months?
What Causes Baby Teeth Coming In Late?
There are a few reasons why baby teeth come in late, and most of them are harmless:
1. Family History
If you or your partner started teething late as babies, there’s a good chance your child will, too. Teething patterns often run in families.
2. Premature Birth or Low Birth Weight
Babies born early or with a low birth weight may experience some delays in teething and, sometimes, other developmental milestones. However, these differences usually even out over time.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Another factor that may also cause baby teeth to come out late is their lack of certain nutrients, like calcium or vitamin D. In fact, a study conducted in Nepal shows that malnutrition can delay the eruption of baby teeth and increase the instances of babies getting decayed teeth.
4. Medical Conditions & Systemic Diseases
Some medical conditions can delay tooth eruption.
- Systemic diseases like hypothyroidism (which slows down growth and metabolism) and rickets (a bone disorder caused by vitamin D deficiency) can affect normal tooth development.
- Anemia, where there are not enough healthy red blood cells, can also slow down teething by reducing the oxygen supply to developing tissues.
5. Endocrine Disorders
Conditions such as hypothyroidism or growth hormone deficiencies can delay teeth coming in. Hormones play a big part in how fast or slow your baby will grow. And any imbalance may slow down when your baby’s teeth appear.
6. Medical Interventions and Medications
Sometimes, medical treatments or certain medications can also slow down teething. Babies who have had many or long treatments with antibiotics or steroids might experience delays in their dental development.
In most cases, late teething is just a variation of normal. But if your baby has no teeth by 18 months, it’s a good idea to book a visit with a pediatric dentistry professional for a gentle check-up. If you are residing in or around the Bendigo area, Clarity Dental may help you check your baby’s teeth for you.
Should I Be Worried About Late Teething?
As dentists, we understand that it can be worrisome knowing that your baby’s teeth are coming late, but remember—not all babies follow the same teething timeline. Many babies who start growing their teeth late may still experience healthy teeth without any problems.
However, it may be best that you should check with a dentist if your child:
- Has no teeth by 18 months
- Is in pain but no teeth are coming through
- Shows other signs of slow development
- Or if you’re simply concerned
A pediatric dentistry check-up can gently assess your baby’s gums and jaw, and give you peace of mind about their dental development.
Let Their Smile Grow in Their Own Time
Teething is an important part of your baby’s development. However, it doesn’t always follow the same timeline for everyone. Whether your child starts teething early or experiences baby teeth coming in late, what matters most is that their teeth are healthy when they do arrive.
At Clarity Dental, our caring team is here to support you with trusted advice and gentle paediatric dentistry for your little one. Our skilled team will welcome you and your child warmly into our clinic and ensure you get more clarity on your baby’s teeth and how you can protect them.
If you’re unsure about your baby’s teething progress or want a friendly check-up, we’re here to help. Book an appointment with us today.