Guide to Baby’s First Teeth: When does tooth eruption begin?

A baby’s front four teeth on top and bottom are usually the first to erupt, generally at about 6 months of age.

The timing of tooth eruption varies as some children grow teeth early and others may not have teeth until shortly after their first birthday.

Most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth by the time they are 2 to 3 years of age. As your child grows, their jaws also grow, making room for permanent teeth which will begin to erupt at about 6 years of age. The oral tissues and erupting permanent teeth begin to absorb the primary teeth roots.

Most children will have the majority of their permanent teeth between the ages of 12 and 14. The remaining molars (wisdom teeth) erupt between the ages of 18 to 21 to form the complete set of 32 permanent teeth.

As teeth erupt, many children have tender gum tissue and irritability. Teething rings and gently massaging your child’s gum tissue with a cold cloth may be soothing.

Contrary to popular belief, a fever is not normally linked to tooth eruption. If your child has an unusually high fever you should contact their pediatrician.