Published: September 2026
Last Updated: September 2, 2026
Sources Reviewed: September 2, 2026
By Adel Galal, Parnthub
Medical note: I am not a dermatologist or a doctor, and this content does not replace professional medical advice. What I share comes from real-life experience, extensive research, and consultation with healthcare providers. Always consult qualified medical professionals for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.
Your baby's first tooth is a small thing that feels like a huge milestone.
One day there is a gummy smile.
Then you notice a tiny white edge.
After that, more teeth seem to arrive one by one.
Parents often ask the same questions.
When should the first tooth appear?
Which teeth come next?
How many teeth should a 1-year-old have?
Is it normal if my baby still has no teeth?
This infant teeth growth guide makes the entire process simple.
As a father of four and grandfather of four, I have learned not to turn tooth dates into deadlines.
Children do not all follow the same calendar.
The order is usually more useful than an exact month.
This guide explains the baby teeth timeline, the usual baby teeth order, what happens from the first tooth through the final baby molars, and how to protect each tooth as soon as it appears.
Quick Answer About Infant Teeth Growth
Most babies get their first baby tooth at around 6 months.
Some babies start earlier.
Some start later.
Some healthy babies still have no visible teeth at their first birthday.
The lower front teeth are usually the first to appear.
Then the other front teeth arrive.
First molars, canine teeth, and second molars follow later.
Most children have all 20 primary teeth by about age 3.
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears.
Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice.
Brush twice each day.
Your baby should also have a first dental visit after the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday.
What Does Infant Teeth Growth Mean?
Parents often use the words teeth growth and teething to mean the same thing.
They are related, but they are not exactly the same.
Infant teeth growth includes the development and appearance of your baby's first set of teeth.
The dental word for a tooth coming through the gum is tooth eruption.
Teething describes the period when a tooth is moving through the gum and may cause mild gum discomfort.
Your baby's teeth begin developing long before you can see them.
The American Dental Association explains that babies normally have all 20 baby teeth already developing inside their jaws.
They simply have not erupted yet.
How Many Baby Teeth Are There?
Children normally develop 20 baby teeth.
These are also called primary teeth or milk teeth.
There are 10 in the upper jaw.
There are 10 in the lower jaw.
The full set includes:
- 8 central and lateral incisors
- 4 canine teeth
- 4 first molars
- 4 second molars
Most children have their full set by about age 3.
When Does the First Baby Tooth Appear?
The first baby tooth often appears around 6 months.
But there is a wide normal range.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that many babies develop their first teeth between 6 and 12 months.
Some babies have a tooth earlier.
Some healthy babies still have no teeth when they turn 1.
So do not compare your baby with another baby who has six teeth already.
Teeth have their own schedule.
Which Baby Teeth Usually Come First?
The lower central incisors usually win the race.
These are the two small front teeth in the lower jaw.
They are often followed by the upper central incisors.
Next come the teeth beside them, called the lateral incisors.
The back teeth and canine teeth arrive later.
Complete Baby Teeth Eruption Timeline
The following baby tooth eruption chart uses the common ranges published by the American Dental Association.
Use the ages as a guide.
They are not deadlines.
| Tooth | Upper Teeth | Lower Teeth |
|---|---|---|
| Central incisors | 8 to 12 months | 6 to 10 months |
| Lateral incisors | 9 to 13 months | 10 to 16 months |
| First molars | 13 to 19 months | 14 to 18 months |
| Canine teeth | 16 to 22 months | 17 to 23 months |
| Second molars | 25 to 33 months | 23 to 31 months |
The NHS gives a simpler pattern.
Front central teeth often start near 6 months.
Lateral incisors follow.
First molars often appear around the first birthday.
Canines come later.
Second molars are often among the final baby teeth.
Baby Teeth Order Made Simple
If the full table feels like too much, remember this simple baby teeth order.
- Lower front teeth
- Upper front teeth
- Side front teeth
- First molars
- Canine teeth
- Second molars
This order can vary.
One tooth may appear before its matching tooth on the other side.
That does not automatically mean anything is wrong.
Infant Teeth Growth From Birth to 6 Months
You may not see any teeth during the first few months.
That does not mean nothing is happening.
The primary teeth are developing below the gum.
Your baby may begin putting hands in the mouth at around 3 months.
Drooling may also increase.
This is normal development.
It does not prove that the first tooth is about to appear.
For more detail about normal saliva development, read our Infant Drooling Guide.
Infant Teeth Growth From 6 to 12 Months
This is when many babies get their first visible teeth.
The lower central incisors are often first.
The upper front teeth may follow.
Some babies already have several teeth by their first birthday.
Others may have only one.
Some may still have none.
Variation is common.
How Many Teeth Should a 6 Month Old Have?
There is no required number.
A 6 month old may have no teeth.
Another may already have one or two.
Both can be normal.
Do not use tooth count alone to judge your baby's development.
How Many Teeth Should a 9 Month Old Have?
Many 9-month-old babies have some front teeth.
But there is still a wide range.
The important point is that the baby teeth timeline varies from child to child.
How Many Teeth Should a 1 Year Old Have?
There is no exact number that every 1-year-old should have.
Some children have several front teeth.
Some are only beginning the process.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that a healthy baby can still have no teeth at the first birthday.
This is also why a dental visit by age 1 is useful.
The dentist can check your baby's mouth even if very few teeth are visible.
Infant Teeth Growth From 12 to 18 Months
More teeth usually arrive during the second year.
The front teeth continue to fill in.
The first molars often begin appearing.
These are broad back teeth used for chewing.
Your child may now look much more like a toddler when smiling.
If your child is entering the molar stage, read our Infant Molar Teething Guide.
Teeth Growth From 18 to 24 Months
The pointed canine teeth often appear during this period.
They sit between the side incisors and first molars.
More chewing teeth also become useful as your toddler eats a wider range of foods.
Remember that children develop at different rates.
A tooth arriving a few months earlier or later than the chart is not automatically a problem.
Teeth Growth From Age 2 to 3
The second molars usually complete the baby tooth set.
These sit at the very back of the mouth.
Most children have all 20 milk teeth by about age 3.
Once your child moves into the toddler years, our Complete Toddler Guide can help with development, nutrition, sleep, health, safety, and dental care.
Do Baby Teeth Always Come in Pairs?
No.
You may notice one lower tooth before the tooth beside it.
One upper tooth may appear before the matching tooth on the other side.
The second tooth often follows later.
Perfect symmetry is not required.
Why Does My Baby Have Teeth Earlier Than Expected?
Some babies simply get teeth early.
Teeth can appear before the usual 6 month mark.
The NHS notes that some babies begin teething before 4 months.
Age ranges are only guides.
Early tooth eruption does not automatically mean a problem.
Can a Baby Be Born With Teeth?
Yes.
A small number of babies are born with one or more visible teeth.
These are often called natal teeth.
A healthcare professional or dentist should check them.
This is especially important if a tooth is loose, hurts the baby's tongue, or causes feeding problems.
A very loose tooth may create a choking risk.
What If My Baby Has No Teeth at 12 Months?
Do not panic.
Some healthy babies still have no visible teeth on their first birthday.
The American Academy of Pediatrics says the timing of the first tooth can vary widely.
But your baby should still have a dental assessment by around the first birthday.
Ask your pediatrician or dentist if you are concerned about delayed tooth eruption.
They can look at your baby's gums, growth, family pattern, and overall health.
When Should I Ask About Delayed Tooth Eruption?
There is no single date that proves something is wrong.
Talk with a dentist or pediatrician if:
- You are worried about the lack of teeth
- Tooth development seems very different from the family pattern
- Your child has other growth concerns
- Your child has feeding or mouth problems
- The gums or jaw look unusual
- A tooth seems blocked or unable to come through
A professional can decide whether your child simply has a later normal pattern or needs more assessment.
Does Drooling Mean a Tooth Is About to Erupt?
Not always.
Babies often start drooling and chewing hands months before the first tooth.
This is part of normal oral development.
Teething becomes more likely when drooling happens with a tender gum and a tooth close to the surface.
Learn more in our Infant Drooling Guide.
What Are Normal Teething Signs?
The arrival of a new tooth may cause mild signs.
These can include:
- More chewing
- More drooling
- A mildly tender gum
- A red area where the tooth is coming through
- Mild fussiness
A true fever, significant diarrhea, repeated vomiting, or a very sick baby should not simply be blamed on teeth.
For safe comfort methods and products to avoid, use our complete Baby Teething Guide.
Infant Teeth Growth Versus Baby Teething
These two topics overlap, but the goal is different.
Infant teeth growth answers:
- When do teeth come in?
- Which tooth comes first?
- What is the eruption order?
- How many baby teeth are there?
Baby teething answers:
- What are the symptoms?
- How can I soothe the gums?
- What remedies are safe?
- Which products should I avoid?
Keeping these questions separate makes it easier for parents to find the answer they need.
Why Are Baby Teeth Important?
You may wonder why milk teeth matter if they eventually fall out.
They have important jobs right now.
Baby Teeth Help With Eating
Front teeth help bite food.
Molars help crush and chew it.
Baby Teeth Help With Speech
Teeth, lips, and the tongue work together when children begin making clearer sounds and words.
Baby Teeth Hold Space
Primary teeth help hold space in the jaw for the permanent teeth that will come later.
Baby Teeth Can Get Cavities
A baby tooth can decay just like an adult tooth.
Decay can cause pain and infection.
This is why baby oral care begins early.
How to Care for Gums Before the First Tooth
You do not have to wait for a tooth before caring for your baby's mouth.
Use a clean, soft, damp cloth to gently wipe the gums.
This also helps your baby become familiar with mouth care.
For a complete routine from birth, see our Newborn Dental Care Guide.
What Should I Do When the First Tooth Appears?
Start brushing.
Do not wait for several teeth.
The first visible tooth is enough.
Use:
- A small child-sized toothbrush
- Soft bristles
- A tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste
- An amount about the size of a grain of rice
Brush twice each day.
One brushing should be before bed.
The American Academy of Pediatrics, American Dental Association, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry all support early brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
Should Babies Use Fluoride Toothpaste?
Yes.
Current pediatric and dental guidance recommends fluoride toothpaste once the first tooth appears.
For children younger than age 3, use only a tiny smear about the size of a grain of rice.
Do not cover the whole toothbrush with toothpaste.
The parent should do the brushing.
When Should I Start Flossing Baby Teeth?
You do not need to floss a single tooth.
Start cleaning between teeth when two teeth touch each other.
Your dentist can show you the easiest method.
When Should My Baby First See a Dentist?
Do not wait until there is a problem.
The American Dental Association recommends the first visit after the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry also recommends establishing a dental home within 6 months of the first tooth and no later than age 1.
The first visit can help with:
- Checking tooth development
- Looking for early cavities
- Reviewing brushing technique
- Discussing fluoride
- Checking feeding habits
- Answering teething questions
Can Baby Teeth Get Cavities Soon After Eruption?
Yes.
A tooth can begin developing decay after it appears in the mouth.
This is called early childhood cavities or early childhood caries.
Good brushing and feeding habits lower the risk.
How to Protect New Baby Teeth From Cavities
Brush Twice a Day
Use fluoride toothpaste from the first tooth.
Do Not Put Baby to Bed With a Bottle
Milk or formula sitting around teeth during sleep can increase cavity risk.
Finish the bedtime feed before sleep when possible.
Avoid Sugary Drinks
Babies do not need soda or sweet drinks.
Follow age-appropriate feeding advice from your healthcare professional.
Limit Frequent Sugar Exposure
How often teeth meet sugar matters.
Constant snacking on sweet foods can increase cavity risk as children grow.
Keep Dental Visits
Your dentist can monitor tooth eruption, enamel, gums, and cavity risk.
Does Breastfeeding Cause Tooth Decay?
Breastfeeding has many benefits.
Once teeth appear, oral care still matters.
Brush erupted teeth twice daily.
Ask your pediatrician or dentist about your baby's individual cavity risk and nighttime feeding pattern.
Should I Worry About Gaps Between Baby Teeth?
Small gaps between baby teeth can be normal.
Baby teeth are smaller than adult teeth.
Space can help leave room for larger permanent teeth later.
If you notice a very unusual tooth position, bite, or jaw shape, ask your child's dentist.
What If a Baby Tooth Looks Crooked?
New teeth do not always look perfectly straight.
The mouth is still growing.
More teeth will also change the way the smile looks.
Your dentist can follow tooth position over time.
Do not try to move a tooth yourself.
What If Two Teeth Appear Very Close Together?
This can be normal.
Once two teeth touch, clean between them.
Food and plaque can collect where a toothbrush may not reach well.
What If a New Tooth Has a White, Brown, or Dark Mark?
A new tooth should be checked if you see an unusual mark that does not wipe away.
Changes in enamel can have different causes.
A dentist can tell whether the area is normal, stained, weak enamel, or early decay.
Can Baby Teeth Erupt in a Different Order?
Yes.
The chart shows the most common pattern.
Real children do not always follow the chart perfectly.
A lateral tooth may appear earlier.
One side may lead the other.
The first molar may surprise you.
A different order does not automatically mean a medical problem.
Do Premature Babies Get Teeth Later?
Some babies who were born early may reach certain growth milestones on a different schedule.
Do not try to diagnose delayed teeth from a chart alone.
Your pediatrician and dentist can consider your baby's full birth and growth history.
When Should You Call a Dentist?
Contact a dentist if you notice:
- A tooth that looks damaged
- A dark or chalky mark on a tooth
- Swelling around a tooth
- Pus near the gum
- Bleeding that keeps happening
- A broken tooth
- A very loose tooth after an injury
- Pain that does not settle
- An unusual lump over the gum
- Concerns about very late tooth eruption
When Should You Call the Pediatrician?
Teeth do not explain every symptom that happens during infancy.
Contact your baby's healthcare professional if your baby has:
- A true fever
- Repeated vomiting
- Significant diarrhea
- Poor feeding
- Signs of dehydration
- Unusual sleepiness
- Severe or lasting crying
- Trouble breathing
- Another symptom that worries you
Do not let a new tooth hide signs of illness.
Infant Teeth Growth Myths
Myth: Every Baby Must Have a Tooth at 6 Months
Fact: Six months is an average, not a deadline.
Myth: No Teeth at 12 Months Always Means a Problem
Fact: Some healthy babies have no visible teeth at their first birthday. A dental visit can check development.
Myth: Lots of Drool Means a Tooth Will Appear Tomorrow
Fact: Drooling can begin long before a tooth erupts.
Myth: Baby Teeth Do Not Matter Because They Fall Out
Fact: Baby teeth help with eating, speech, and space for future teeth.
Myth: Babies Should Not Use Toothpaste
Fact: Current guidance recommends a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste from the first tooth.
Myth: Tooth Eruption Must Follow the Chart Exactly
Fact: Eruption charts show common ranges. Individual timing varies.
Simple Infant Teeth Growth Checklist
- Expect the first tooth around 6 months, with normal variation
- Remember that lower front teeth often come first
- Use the tooth timeline as a guide, not a deadline
- Expect 20 primary teeth in total
- Most children have all 20 by about age 3
- Clean gums before teeth appear
- Start brushing when the first tooth erupts
- Use a rice grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste
- Brush twice each day
- Clean between teeth once they touch
- Arrange the first dental visit by age 1
- Do not blame fever or serious illness on teeth
Conclusion
Infant teeth growth is a journey, not a race.
The first tooth often appears around 6 months.
The lower front teeth usually arrive first.
More incisors, first molars, canine teeth, and second molars follow over the next few years.
Most children have all 20 primary teeth by about age 3.
Use the baby teeth timeline to understand the usual pattern.
Do not use it to compare your child with every other baby.
Protect each tooth from the day it appears.
Brush twice daily with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste and establish dental care early.
Your next step: Check your baby's gums today, note any teeth already visible, and save this infant teeth growth guide so you can follow the next stage.
References and Sources
- American Dental Association MouthHealthy: Baby Teeth Eruption Charts
- American Academy of Pediatrics HealthyChildren: Baby's First Tooth Facts Parents Should Know
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: Early Childhood Caries Prevention Policy
- NHS: Baby Teething Symptoms and Tooth Order
- American Dental Association MouthHealthy: Baby Teeth and Oral Care
More Parnthub Baby Teeth and Teething Guides
- Baby Teething Signs Timeline and Safe Relief
- Infant Molar Teething Signs Timeline and Safe Relief
- Infant Drooling Causes Care and When to Worry
- Newborn Dental Care Guide
Baby Care Hub: Explore feeding, sleep, health, development, teething, dental care, skin, safety, and more in our Complete Baby Care Guide.
Toddler Hub: When your baby reaches the toddler stage, find development, feeding, sleep, health, behaviour, safety, and dental guidance in our Complete Toddler Guide.
About the Author
Adel Galal
Founder of Parnthub
Father of four
Grandfather of four
More than three decades of parenting and grandparenting experience
I created Parnthub to make parenting information easier to understand.
I have raised four children and now share the parenting journey with four grandchildren.
I have watched first teeth arrive early, late, quietly, and with plenty of drool.
That real family experience taught me not to treat milestone charts like strict deadlines.
I research parenting and health topics using trusted pediatric, dental, and public health sources.
My goal is to turn that research into simple information parents can actually use.
I am not a dermatologist or a doctor, and this content does not replace professional medical advice. What I share comes from real-life experience, extensive research, and consultation with healthcare providers. Always consult qualified medical professionals for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.
Learn more about Adel Galal and Parnthub.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infant Teeth Growth
When do babies usually get their first tooth?
Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months, but the timing varies. Some babies start earlier, while some healthy babies have no visible teeth by their first birthday.
What are usually the first baby teeth to come in?
The lower central incisors are usually first. These are the two front teeth in the lower jaw.
What is the usual baby teeth order?
The common order is lower front teeth, upper front teeth, lateral incisors, first molars, canine teeth, and then second molars. The exact order can vary.
How many baby teeth are there?
Children normally develop 20 primary teeth. There are 10 in the upper jaw and 10 in the lower jaw.
How many teeth should a 1-year-old have?
There is no exact number every 1-year-old must have. Some children have several teeth, while some healthy children may still have no visible teeth at their first birthday.
When do babies get molars?
First molars commonly appear during the second year of life. Second molars arrive later and are usually among the last baby teeth to erupt.
When do babies get canine teeth?
Canine teeth commonly emerge after the first molars. ADA ranges place them around 16 to 22 months in the upper jaw and 17 to 23 months in the lower jaw.
When do babies have all 20 teeth?
Most children have all 20 primary teeth by about age 3.
Should I worry if my baby has no teeth at 12 months?
Not automatically. Some healthy babies have no visible teeth by their first birthday. Your child should still see a dentist by about age 1 so development can be checked.
When should I start brushing baby teeth?
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. Brush twice a day with a soft child-sized toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice.
When should a baby first see a dentist?
Arrange a dental visit after the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday.
Does drooling always mean a baby is teething?
No. Babies often drool and chew their hands before teeth are ready to erupt. Drooling can be part of normal mouth development.
