If you’ve noticed your little one starting to teethe, you might have been eagerly waiting for their first tiny tooth to poke through. You probably imagined it would be those sweet, tiny bottom front teeth. But instead, you spot something surprising: their canines! Wait, what?!
Your first thought might be “Is this normal? Why aren’t they following the usual pattern?” The short answer is: yes, it’s completely normal! Let’s take a closer look at why this happens and what you can expect as your baby’s teeth start to emerge.
What’s the Typical Order for Baby Teeth to Grow In?
Understanding the typical order of teething can help you know what to expect. Usually, the first teeth to emerge are the two bottom front teeth (central incisors), around 6 to 10 months, followed by the top front teeth (central incisors) between 8 to 12 months. Next come the lateral incisors (next to the central incisors), around 9 to 13 months.
The first molars (used for chewing) typically appear between 13 and 19 months, followed by the canines (sharp teeth for tearing food), between 16 and 23 months. The second molars, located further back, usually emerge between 23 and 33 months.
Read more: A Complete Guide to Primary Teeth Eruption
Why Do Baby Teeth Sometimes Come In Out of Order? Is This Normal?
It can be surprising if your baby’s teeth come in out of order, but rest assured, it’s more common than you might think. There’s generally no cause for concern.
Although there isn’t a specific reason why teeth sometimes appear in a different order, it’s simply one of those variations that can differ from baby to baby.
Every baby is unique. Some babies may sprout their first tooth as early as 4 months, while others don’t get one until they’re closer to 12 months.
So, even if the timing or order of eruption seems unusual, as long as your baby is healthy and getting the right nutrition, there’s no need to worry. Trust that your little one is following their own natural path.
Genetics can also influence teething patterns. If you or your partner had an unusual teething timeline, your baby might follow a similar pattern.
Do I Need to Visit a Pediatric Dentist if My Baby’s Teeth Aren’t Following the Usual Order?
In most cases, if your baby’s teeth are coming in out of order but appear healthy, there’s no need to make an extra trip to the dentist.
However, if you notice signs like discoloration, bleeding, swelling, or persistent discomfort, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatric dentist.
These could be indications of underlying issues, such as infection or teething complications, that may require professional attention.
We also can’t stress enough how important good oral hygiene is at this stage for those tiny teeth that are just starting to show up.
Start brushing twice a day with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a bit of water as soon as they emerge. Once more teeth come in, you can add a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) to your child’s routine.
It’s perfectly fine if they swallow the toothpaste, as the small amount of fluoride actually helps their developing teeth. Once your baby has two teeth that touch, you can start gently flossing between them to get rid of any food particles.
And as you continue to care for your little one’s teeth, it’s also important to have a trusted dental home for their long-term oral health.
If you’re in Lafayette, Broussard, Youngsville, Breaux Bridge, Carencro, or nearby areas and are looking for a dental home for your child, we’d love to help!
Feel free to schedule an appointment with our pediatric dental specialists or reach out if you have any questions. We’re here for you!