A baby’s front four teeth on top and bottom are usually the first to erupt, generally at about six months of age.

There may be variation on timing of tooth eruption as some children get teeth early and others may not have teeth until shortly after their first birthday.

Most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth by the time they are 2 – 3 years of age. As your child grows, the jaws also grow, making room for the permanent teeth that will begin to erupt at about 6 years of age. The roots of the primary teeth begin to be absorbed by the surrounding tissues and erupting permanent teeth.

Most children will have the majority of their permanent teeth between the ages of 12 and 14. The remaining molars (“wisdom teeth”) erupt between the ages of 18-21 to form the complete set of 32 permanent teeth. The chart provided below may assist you in monitoring your child’s dental development and tooth eruption.

As teeth erupt many children have tender gum tissue and generalized irritability. Gently massaging your child’s gum tissue with a cold cloth may be soothing. Additionally, teething rings may be useful in helping your child.

Contrary to common belief, a fever is not normally linked to tooth eruption. If your infant has an unusually high fever you should contact your child’s pediatrician.