The teething process is a significant developmental milestone in a child’s life—but for many parents, it’s also a time of confusion and questions. Knowing how long does teething last, what’s normal, and when to schedule a first dental appointment can help parents feel confident in caring for their children’s teeth and setting a foundation for lifelong oral health.
At Legacy Smiles, we believe that early dental care is just as important as regular checkups later in life. In this article, we’ll break down the typical teething timeline, what symptoms to expect, how to manage them effectively, and when your child should visit the dentist for the first time.
What Is Teething?
Teething refers to the process by which a baby’s primary (baby) teeth emerge through the gums. This developmental phase typically begins in infancy and continues into toddlerhood as the full set of 20 baby teeth erupt. The process can cause temporary discomfort and behavioral changes, but it is a normal part of early growth.
Teething does not follow a strict schedule for every child, but pediatric dental research has shown that most children begin teething between 4 and 7 months of age, with the first teeth usually appearing in the front lower jaw (mandibular central incisors) [American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, AAPD].
How Long Does Teething Last?
Parents often ask: How long does teething last? The answer varies, but teething typically spans from the first tooth at around 6 months to the eruption of second molars by age 2 to 3. In total, the process may last about 18 to 24 months, although each individual tooth’s eruption tends to cause symptoms for only a few days to a week.
General Teething Timeline
| Tooth Type | Average Eruption Age |
|---|---|
| Lower central incisors | 6–10 months |
| Upper central incisors | 8–12 months |
| Upper lateral incisors | 9–13 months |
| Lower lateral incisors | 10–16 months |
| First molars | 13–19 months |
| Canines (cuspids) | 16–22 months |
| Second molars | 23–33 months |
Keep in mind that some children may teethe earlier or later than these averages. What matters most is not exact timing, but a consistent progression and eventual full eruption by age three.
Recognizing Teething Symptoms
Not all children show clear signs of discomfort during teething, but for many, the process can be accompanied by noticeable changes in behavior and appetite. Common symptoms include:
- Drooling and gum swelling
- Irritability or fussiness
- Biting or chewing on objects
- Refusal to eat or drink
- Sleep disturbances
- Rubbing of the cheeks or pulling at the ears
Contrary to popular belief, fever, diarrhea, or rash are not considered normal symptoms of teething. If these are present, it’s best to consult a pediatrician to rule out unrelated illnesses.
Eruption vs. Eruption Symptoms
While teething may last over two years in total, teething discomfort is usually episodic, lasting 3–7 days before and after the emergence of each tooth. As each new tooth appears, it can trigger a new round of symptoms. For some children, this cycle is barely noticeable, while others may exhibit discomfort for multiple teeth at once.
At Legacy Smiles, we often explain to parents that while teething is a long process, their child may only experience short bursts of discomfort with each new tooth. Understanding this can reduce anxiety and help caregivers provide targeted support when needed.
Teething Relief Strategies
There is no way to speed up the teething process, but several safe and effective methods can reduce discomfort for babies and toddlers.
Gum Massage
Using a clean finger or soft, damp cloth to gently massage the baby’s gums can relieve pressure.
Teething Toys
Chilled (not frozen) teething rings or silicone-based toys are excellent tools for soothing irritated gums. Avoid liquid-filled toys or items that pose a choking hazard.
Pain Relief
For children over 6 months, acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be recommended for pain, but only under a pediatrician’s guidance. Topical numbing gels are discouraged by the FDA due to potential health risks in infants.
Feeding Adjustments
If eating is painful, offer soft foods and avoid hard, acidic, or spicy options that can aggravate tender gums.
When Should Children See the Dentist?
Even if a child has only one or two visible teeth, early dental care is critical. The American Dental Association and the AAPD recommend that children have their first dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting—whichever comes first.
Why See a Dentist So Early?
- Monitor development of children’s teeth and bite
- Educate parents on oral hygiene techniques for infants
- Prevent early decay through guidance on diet and brushing
- Establish comfort with dental visits early on
At Legacy Smiles, we see a child’s first dental visit as an opportunity to build trust and establish lifelong oral care habits. Early visits are gentle and informative. The goal is to observe tooth development, assess risk, and answer parent questions—not to perform extensive procedures.
What to Expect at the First Visit to Legacy Smiles
A child’s initial appointment with Dr. Kolten Astle at Legacy Smiles typically includes:
- A comprehensive visual exam of teeth and gums
- Gentle cleaning if appropriate
- Demonstration of brushing techniques
- Fluoride varnish application (depending on age and risk)
- Discussion about pacifier use, thumb sucking, and bottle-feeding habits
- A review of the child’s diet and how it impacts oral health
We also assess for any anomalies in tooth eruption or spacing, which can help in early detection of orthodontic issues.
Caring for Children’s Teeth at Home
Even before the first tooth appears, it’s essential to establish good oral hygiene practices. Bacteria can still accumulate on the gums and early signs of decay can appear shortly after teeth erupt.
Infants:
- Wipe gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings
- Avoid putting a baby to bed with a bottle
- Limit sugary liquids (juice, formula) especially at night
Toddlers:
- Begin brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste
- Supervise brushing until at least age 6
- Encourage drinking water instead of juice between meals
- Avoid frequent snacking, especially on sticky or sugary foods
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children aged 6 to 11, yet it is largely preventable with early intervention and daily hygiene.
The Connection Between Teething and Long-Term Oral Health
Although baby teeth are eventually replaced, they play an essential role in a child’s oral health:
- Help with speech development and chewing
- Guide the alignment of permanent teeth
- Prevent spacing issues and overcrowding
Neglecting children’s teeth during the teething and toddler years can lead to early childhood caries (ECC), which may require fillings, crowns, or even extractions under general anesthesia. Starting early with dental care at Legacy Smiles helps reduce these risks significantly.
Common Parental Concerns During Teething
My child is drooling constantly—is that normal?
Yes. Increased saliva production is typical during teething. Keep the area around the mouth dry to prevent rashes.
Should I be brushing if my child only has one tooth?
Yes. Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste in an amount no larger than a grain of rice.
My baby doesn’t have any teeth yet at 10 months. Should I be worried?
Not necessarily. The timing of teething can vary widely. If there are no teeth by 18 months, schedule a dental visit for evaluation.
When to Call the Dentist During Teething
While teething symptoms are usually manageable, certain signs may warrant a call to Legacy Smiles:
- Excessive swelling or bruising of the gums
- High fever not explained by other causes
- Refusal to eat or drink for extended periods
- Signs of infection or trauma to the gums
- Teeth that appear discolored or malformed when they erupt
Dr. Astle and the team are available to assess any concerns about teething, development, or your child’s first visit.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does teething last? The short answer is: most of early childhood. From the first tooth around 6 months to the final molars at age 2 or 3, teething is a gradual, necessary process. While it may come with discomfort, the right approach—paired with timely dental visits—makes all the difference.
At Legacy Smiles, we’re proud to be a trusted partner for families in Billings, MT. Whether you’re navigating your child’s first tooth, managing teething challenges, or preparing for their first dental checkup, our team is here to support every stage of your child’s oral health journey.
Book your child’s first dental visit with Legacy Smiles today, and start their path to a healthy, confident smile.
Sources:
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) [https://www.aapd.org]
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth]
- American Dental Association (ADA) [https://www.ada.org]
