The arrival of a baby's first tooth is a very special moment for any family. Besides marking a new stage in their growth, it's also the beginning of their oral health. Many parents have questions about when the first tooth appears, what symptoms are normal, and how to properly care for it from the start.
At MIDSA we want to help you understand everything related to infant tooth eruption and how to prevent future problems from the first months of life.
When does a baby's first tooth appear?
Generally, the first tooth usually appears between 6 and 10 months of age, although every baby develops at their own pace. Some children may start earlier and others take a little longer, and this is perfectly normal.
The teeth that usually come in first are the lower central incisors, that is, the two front teeth at the bottom.
Usual order of eruption of baby teeth
This is usually the most common process:
- 6-10 months: lower central incisors
- 8-12 months: upper central incisors
- 9-13 months: lateral incisors
- 13-19 months: first molars
- 16-23 months: canines
- 23-33 months: second molars
Primary dentition is usually completed around age 3.
Common symptoms when the first tooth erupts
During teething, it is normal for the baby to experience some mild symptoms such as:
- Swollen or tender gums
- Increased need to bite objects
- More abundant drooling
- Irritability or discomfort
- Mild sleep disturbances
However, high fever, severe diarrhea, or significant discomfort are not usually directly related to teething and should be evaluated by a pediatrician.
How to care for your baby's first tooth
Oral hygiene should begin as soon as the first tooth appears. This helps prevent childhood cavities and establishes healthy habits from a young age.
1. Daily cleaning from the first tooth
It is recommended to clean your teeth and gums after meals and before going to bed using:
- A moist gauze pad
- A silicone thimble
- A children's toothbrush with soft bristles
2. Use fluoride toothpaste
Currently, scientific societies recommend using fluoridated toothpaste for children from the appearance of the first tooth, in a very small amount adapted to the baby's age.
Fluoride helps prevent cavities from the early years.
Avoid these habits that increase the risk of cavities
There are some common habits that can contribute to the development of early childhood caries in babies:
- Sleeping with a bottle
- Dip the pacifier in sugar or honey
- Frequent consumption of juices or sugary drinks
- Not brushing your teeth before bed
The so-called "baby bottle tooth decay" can appear even in very young children.
When should a child's first visit to the dentist be?
The first dental check-up should be done before the first year of life or when the first tooth appears.
Early visits allow:
- Detecting problems early
- Answer questions about hygiene and nutrition
- Preventing childhood cavities
- To accustom the child to the dental environment in a positive way
At MIDSA we perform check-ups adapted to babies and children to support families from the beginning of dental development.
Children's dentist in Valencia
If you are looking for a children's dentist in Valencia specializing in prevention and oral health for children, at MIDSA we will be happy to help you.
Prevention from the first months is key to achieving a healthy smile throughout life.
📍 First dental visit for children
📍 Cavity prevention
📍 Education in healthy habits
📍 Personalized attention for babies and children
Frequently asked questions about baby's first tooth
Is it normal for a baby to have discomfort when teething?
Yes, it is common to notice mild irritability, drooling, or a desire to bite objects.
When should I start brushing my baby's teeth?
From the appearance of the first tooth.
Can a baby get cavities?
Yes. Tooth decay in children can appear very early if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.
When is the first visit to a pediatric dentist recommended?
Before the first year of life or with the appearance of the first tooth.
