Baby Teeth Basics: What’s Normal (and What’s Not) in Your Child’s Smile

Watching your baby grow their first teeth is one of parenting’s sweetest milestones. But it also comes with a few natural questions: When should teeth come in? Why are there gaps? Is that spot something to worry about? At Rivers + West Family Dentistry in Mount Pleasant, we love partnering with families to navigate these early dental years with clarity and confidence.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s normal when it comes to baby teeth—and what might need a dentist’s attention.

The Timeline of Baby Teeth (Give or Take a Few Months)

Most babies begin teething between 6 to 12 months, and by age 3, they typically have a complete set of 20 primary teeth. The order of eruption usually goes like this:

• 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, this timeline is a general guide—some children get their first tooth at four months, while others may not see one until after their first birthday. Both can be normal.

What’s Normal in Baby Teeth Development

Spacing between baby teeth
Those cute little gaps you may see between baby teeth? They’re a good thing. They give permanent teeth the space they’ll need later to grow in properly.

Mild teething symptoms
Drooling, swollen gums, and a desire to chew are all normal parts of the teething process. Some babies are fussier than others during this phase, but most symptoms are temporary.

Whiter teeth than adults
Baby teeth are typically whiter and smoother than adult teeth. That brighter appearance is due to thinner enamel and less dentin—the layer beneath enamel that adds color and density in permanent teeth.

Natural wear
As your child grows and eats more solid foods, it’s normal for baby teeth to show signs of minor wear, especially around the biting edges of molars.

When It’s Time to Ask Your Dentist

While there’s a lot of variety in baby tooth development, some signs may require a dental evaluation. Here’s what we recommend watching for:

No teeth by 18 months
If your baby hasn’t sprouted any teeth by 18 months, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit. Delayed eruption can sometimes signal an underlying issue.

Discoloration or dark spots
White, brown, or black spots may indicate early tooth decay—even if your child doesn’t complain of pain. Baby bottle decay and poor brushing habits are common causes.

Crowded or overlapping teeth
While spacing is good, overcrowding can point to future orthodontic concerns. Early evaluation may allow for interceptive treatment later.

Swelling or persistent gum irritation
While teething does cause some inflammation, anything that’s unusually painful, swollen, or associated with fever should be checked by a dental professional.

Misshapen or missing teeth
In some cases, tooth anomalies may reflect developmental conditions or past trauma—even if the injury happened months ago.

The Importance of Caring for Baby Teeth

Even though baby teeth are temporary, they serve important roles in your child’s development:

• They guide permanent teeth into place
• They help your child chew, speak, and smile comfortably
• They hold space in the jaw for adult teeth

If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay or injury, nearby teeth can shift into the empty space. This may create bite problems, crowding, or alignment issues when the permanent teeth begin to erupt.

Oral Hygiene Tips for Baby Teeth

At Rivers + West Family Dentistry, we recommend beginning oral care even before the first tooth appears.

• Wipe baby’s gums daily with a clean, damp cloth after feeding.
• As soon as the first tooth erupts, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
• Brush twice daily, especially before bedtime.
• Avoid putting baby to bed with a bottle, especially one with milk or juice.
• Schedule their first dental visit by age 1, or within 6 months of their first tooth appearing.

Starting dental visits early helps your child get comfortable with the dental office environment and gives our team a chance to catch small issues before they become big problems.

A Local Team Who Loves Little Smiles

At Rivers + West Family Dentistry in Mount Pleasant, we understand the unique needs of children and their growing smiles. Our practice provides family-centered care, meaning your child can see the same dental team as you, in a comfortable, welcoming environment.

We offer:

• Routine dental cleanings and exams for children of all ages
• Preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants
• Gentle, child-friendly explanations for every visit
• Advice tailored to your child’s growth, habits, and smile needs

Our team works with parents as true partners—whether you’re wondering about teething, thumb-sucking, or if your child’s tooth just “looks a little off.”

Schedule Your Child’s Visit Today

Not sure if what you’re seeing is normal? We’re happy to take a look. From teething tips to toddler tooth care, Rivers + West Family Dentistry is your trusted Mount Pleasant resource for gentle, expert dental care.

Give us a call today to schedule your child’s first (or next) dental appointment. We’ll help ensure their smile—and your peace of mind—stays healthy at every stage.