Is Your Baby Teething Late? Here’s What You Can Do

Every parent eagerly awaits their baby’s first tooth. But the timing can bring anxiety, especially if it seems slower than other children. However, it’s crucial to remember that each child’s teething timeline varies, so there’s often no need for concern. Let’s dive into understanding teething better.

Understanding Teething Timelines

Most babies begin teething around 6-7 months, though it’s not uncommon for some to start as late as 10 months. Some might even have their first tooth appear after their first birthday — and that’s perfectly normal.

Signs your baby might be teething include increased drooling, a desire to chew on items, irritability, and a decrease in appetite. As a parent, keeping an eye on these indicators will help you realize that teething is just around the corner.

How Can You Help Your Teething Baby?

During the teething phase, parents can employ several strategies to comfort their little one:

1. Gentle Massage: A soft massage on the baby’s red and swollen gums with your finger can offer relief.
2. Offer Frozen, Soft Foods: If your baby seems uninterested in eating, consider giving them chilled, soft foods.
3. Safe Chewing Options: Babies often want to chew on hard objects during this period. To avoid injuries or choking, provide safe teething toys. If offering hard foods like carrots or apples, monitor closely to prevent choking. Always keep small objects, like coins or small toys, out of their reach.
4. Provide Extra Care: Your baby might need more of your attention and care during this time. Soothing and comforting them can help make the process smoother.

Every baby goes through teething, and by their first birthday, most will have several teeth. However, the exact timing can vary based on individual growth and development. If you’re concerned about notably delayed teething, it might be worth checking for micronutrient deficiencies and supplementing as needed.

Also, this phase is an excellent time to introduce varied textured foods to meet their oral needs. Encourage your baby to explore different foods and move away from reliance on pacifiers and bottles over time.

It’s natural for parents to compare their child’s development with others. But remember, each baby is unique. Even among peers, growth varies. Instead of stressing, trust that your little one’s smile will show those pearly whites when the time is right.