Primary Teeth: Their Emergence Stages, Teething Symptoms, and Care Tips
The journey of your child's teeth begins a few months after birth and is accompanied by a set of symptoms that can cause them some discomfort. Primary teeth play a crucial role in developing chewing and speaking abilities, and they also preserve the spaces for the permanent teeth that will emerge later. In this article, we will explain the number of primary teeth, their appearance timeline, the symptoms of teething, and how to soothe your child during this phase.
Number of Primary Teeth and When They Emerge
All babies are born with 20 primary teeth that are hidden within their jaws, but these teeth typically begin to emerge around 6 months of age. Generally, the lower teeth appear first, followed by the upper teeth. They continue to emerge gradually until the full set is complete by around 3 years of age.
You can track the number of teeth appearing in your baby based on their age:
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6-11 months: The lower and upper central incisors begin to appear, bringing the total number to around 4 teeth.
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12-15 months: Additional lateral incisors appear, bringing the total to around 8 teeth.
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16-19 months: The first molars start to emerge, reaching around 12 teeth.
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20-23 months: Canines emerge, bringing the total to around 16 teeth.
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24-30 months: The second molars appear, completing the set of 20 primary teeth.
If no teeth have appeared by the age of 18 months, it is advisable to consult a doctor to ensure that there are no health issues such as nutritional deficiencies or thyroid disorders.
Symptoms of Teething in Babies
The symptoms of teething can vary from one child to another. While some children do not experience significant discomfort, others may suffer from noticeable symptoms, including:
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Swollen and red gums: You may notice that the gums are soft and swollen when touched.
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Increased drooling: Your baby may drool more than usual.
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Desire to bite: The child may try to bite objects like toys or their fingers to relieve the pain.
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Loss of appetite or refusal to eat: Your child may show less interest in food or stop breastfeeding due to the discomfort.
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Sleep disturbances: Sleep may become interrupted due to the discomfort.
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Irritability and continuous crying: Some babies feel discomfort and become more fussy than usual.
It is important to note that fever, diarrhea, and rashes are not normal teething symptoms. If these symptoms occur, it is best to consult a doctor.
Methods to Relieve Teething Pain
Fortunately, there are several ways to soothe your baby during the teething phase, including:
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Gentle gum massage: Use a clean finger or a damp cloth to gently massage the baby's gums.
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Chilled teething rings: Get a specialized teething ring and refrigerate it briefly before giving it to your baby (but do not allow it to freeze completely).
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Cold foods: Offer cold slices of cucumber or apple to help soothe the gums.
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Maintain oral hygiene: Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after each meal.
Avoid using numbing creams or medications without consulting a doctor, as some ingredients may not be safe for infants.
When Should You Visit the Dentist for the First Time?
It is recommended to take your baby to the dentist by the time they turn one, even if not all their teeth have emerged yet. During this visit, the dentist will examine the health of the gums and emerging teeth, and provide advice on caring for primary teeth. Regular visits every 6 months are important to maintain good oral health and ensure the teeth are growing properly.
In conclusion, teething is a natural part of a child’s development, though it can be challenging for both the child and the parents. With the right home remedies and care, you can alleviate the discomfort and make this phase more comfortable for your baby. Don’t forget the importance of regular dental care from a young age to ensure your child’s teeth remain healthy for a lifetime.