If your baby gets their upper teeth before their lower teeth, there's generally no need to worry. The order in which teeth erupt isn't strictly fixed.
Teething Order Isn't a Hard Rule
While babies typically get their lower central incisors first, followed by the upper central incisors, variations are common. The important thing is that your child eventually develops a full set of 20 primary teeth by around age three.
When to Be Concerned
In most cases, the sequence of teeth eruption is a harmless variation. However, potential complications warranting a visit to the dentist include:
- Significantly delayed eruption: If no teeth have erupted by 18 months, consult a dentist.
- Teeth erupting in unusual positions: If a tooth seems to be growing in at a strange angle or location, a dentist can assess the situation.
- Excessive pain or discomfort: While some discomfort is normal during teething, excessive pain could indicate an underlying issue.
Key Takeaways
- The order of teething varies widely.
- Upper teeth erupting first is usually not a cause for concern.
- Focus on ensuring your child develops a full set of teeth by age three.
- Consult a dentist if you have concerns about delayed eruption, unusual tooth positions, or excessive pain.
