Teething Timeline: What’s Normal and When to Call a Pediatric Dentist
Teething can be an exciting milestone — but for many families, it also comes with questions.
When should the first tooth appear? How long does teething last? And when is it time to call a pediatric dentist?
At Alpine Pediatric Dentistry in Lincolnton, NC, we help parents throughout the greater Charlotte area understand what’s normal — and when extra support may be needed.
When Do Babies Start Teething?
Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months of age, but every child is different.
Some babies are born with teeth (rare, but possible), while others may not get their first tooth until closer to 12 months.
Typical Teething Timeline
6–10 months: Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth)
8–12 months: Upper central incisors (top front teeth)
9–16 months: Lateral incisors
13–19 months: First molars
16–23 months: Canines
23–33 months: Second molars
By age 3, most children have all 20 primary (baby) teeth.
Common Teething Symptoms
Normal teething symptoms may include:
Increased drooling
Mild irritability
Swollen or tender gums
Chewing on objects
Slight changes in sleep patterns
Some babies may experience a very mild temperature elevation, but true fever (over 100.4°F) is typically not caused by teething.
If your child has a high fever, diarrhea, or significant lethargy, it’s important to consult your pediatrician.
How to Soothe Teething Discomfort
You can help relieve teething discomfort by:
Offering a clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring
Gently rubbing the gums with a clean finger
Using a cool, damp washcloth for chewing
Avoid topical numbing gels unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
When Should My Child See a Pediatric Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by:
Age 1
Or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting
Even if everything appears normal, early visits allow us to:
Monitor growth and development
Provide cavity prevention guidance
Discuss feeding habits
Establish a positive dental experience
As a pediatric dentist in Lincolnton serving families throughout the greater Charlotte area, we focus on making early visits calm, educational, and stress-free.
When to Call a Pediatric Dentist
You should contact a pediatric dentist if you notice:
Delayed tooth eruption (no teeth by 12–15 months)
Teeth erupting with discoloration or visible defects
Significant swelling or signs of infection
Trauma to a newly erupted tooth
Early evaluation ensures your child’s oral development stays on track.
Teething is temporary — but establishing healthy habits early creates a strong foundation for lifelong dental health.