When babies are born, they already have most of their teeth under their gums. The first tooth usually begins to erupt by six months, although the age can vary from one baby to another. The first two teeth are generally in the bottom middle, and the four are in the upper center.
Most babies have a complete set of 20 milk teeth by the time they turn 3. However, there is no need to worry as some babies are late bloomers and may have their first tooth erupt after 15 months, known as delayed teething.
Are You Going To The Dentist When Your Baby Is In The Teething Phase?
To ensure your baby’s oral health is on the right footpath, pediatric dentists always suggest that you bring them for routine exams and cleanings.
You can begin to take them while they are in the teething phase or when they turn one year old.
Once you do, your dentist will inform you of what’s normal for their age and address any issues that may arise to reduce the risk of long-term complications. In addition, they may help your child develop healthy oral habits so they can practice these good habits for their beautiful smile.
Reasons For Late Teething In Babies
As discussed earlier, some babies are just late bloomers, which you should not stress upon. Apart from that, there may be a few other reasons for late teething in babies:
- Hereditary:
If delayed teething runs in the family genes, then there is no surprise that your child also follows the same DNA. Both your side of the family and your spouse’s can be responsible for a delay in the appearance of your child’s first tooth. - Lack of Nutrition:
If you are not breastfeeding your baby enough during their initial months, it might lead to delayed teething as breast milk contains calcium and other healthy nutrients that your baby needs for the growth and development of their teeth and bones.Also, if the baby is on formula milk and is not nutritious enough to meet all their needs, this could also be a sign of delayed teeth.
- Hypothyroidism:
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid glands don’t produce enough hormones for the body to function conventionally. If your baby has an underactive thyroid, they will most likely face a delay in hitting several milestones like walking, teething, and talking. Then again, there is no need to worry as your skilled dentist will treat it. - Fibrosis:
Fibrosis is a disorder where gums are thick, which slows down the eruption of the teeth. For some infants, this can be the reason for the eruption of their first tooth.
Does A Pacifier Cause Late Teething?
A pacifier is harmless for babies and doesn’t cause teething to take longer. However, using dirty pacifiers or using them improperly or excessively can result in infections and wounds that later result in tooth decay, misaligned teeth, and other oral issues for the infant.
Other Reasons That Might Cause A Delay In Teething
By observing your child and looking for signs like hoarse crying, constipation, or an abnormal heart rate. Then, you must review your family history and note relatives who started teething late if your response to this is affirmative. Then, take your baby to the dentist and let them remove and solve your worries.
Takeaway:
While every child is different, and some develop faster or slower than others, just like this, your baby’s first tooth may come on time or late. Moreover, relax and take your baby to the pediatrician dentist for an overall oral checkup; even before your baby’s teeth make an appearance, your dentist is there to help.