### Baby Teeth Eruption Timeline and What to Do if There's a Delay **When Do Baby Teeth Start to Erupt?** Baby teeth, also known as primary or milk teeth, usually start to come in between 6 and 12 months of age. However, this timeline can vary widely among children. Some babies may get their first teeth as early as 4 months, while others might not see their first tooth until closer to 12 months. **What If There's a Delay?** If your child has no baby teeth by 12 months, it's a good idea to bring them to a dentist. Similarly, if the remaining baby teeth haven't come in by the time they are 4 years old, a dental visit is recommended. A pediatric dentist can determine whether your child's teething timeline is appropriate for their developmental progress. **Possible Causes of Delayed Teething** Several factors can cause delayed tooth eruption, including: - **Premature Birth:** Babies born prematurely may experience delayed growth and development, including late tooth eruption. - **Low Birth Weight:** Babies with low birth weight are more likely to have developmental challenges, including late teething. - **Poor Nutrition:** Proper nutrition during pregnancy and childhood is essential for growth. Malnutrition can cause delays in tooth eruption. - **Genetics:** A family history of late teething can make a child more prone to it. - **Medical Conditions:** Certain syndromes, developmental disorders, and endocrine diseases can also delay tooth eruption. **When to See a Specialist** If your child's baby teeth come in later than the average timeline, it might pose future complications. A dentist might refer you to a specialist to determine the cause. Other signs that require a trip to the dentist include: - No baby teeth by 12 months - Remaining baby teeth not erupted by 4 years - Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher **Conclusion** While a slight delay in teething is usually not a cause for concern, it's important to monitor your child's dental development. Regular dental check-ups can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed early on.