Definition
Tooth eruption is a very difficult and stressful time for both the little one and the parents. Often, the “teething” coincides with other infections, causing the babies to suffer from fever or diarrhoea. Some babies start teething earlier, others later, around the 12th month of life, the first upper molars start to emerge from the gums. The second molars appear later.
When does the teething of molars begin?
The baby’s first molars emerge at about one year of age. Usually the first upper molar appears first between the age of 12 and 18 months. A short time later the first lower molar follows in the same period.
From about the 20th to 31st month of life the second lower molar follows. The second upper molar appears last, approximately at the age of 2-2.5 years. All times given are average values, the actual value can differ by several weeks or months.
How long does it take for the teeth to erupt?
The duration of the tooth eruption depends on several factors and varies from child to child. The first teeth to break through, the incisors, sometimes take only a few days to become fully visible. The molars, on the other hand, can take several weeks or even months to fully erupt.
This process is very individual and depends on the genetics. Even if the pain can be alleviated, there are unfortunately no aids to speed up the teething process. It usually takes up to 3.5 years until all teeth have erupted.
If the teeth do not erupt at the usual time, this is no reason to worry. Some babies simply need a little more time. If you are unsure, you can always visit a (pediatric) dentist who will be happy to help you with any questions you may have about the eruption of teeth.
Pain when teething the cheek tooth
Many, especially inexperienced parents often misinterpret the signs of teething, because babies do not all behave the same when teething. Some children show almost no symptoms, the first tooth shows itself in its most beautiful white in the morning. Other children are in great pain and can no longer sleep through the night.
The characteristics of the tooth do not differ between molars and other teeth. They can be strong or less strong, single or in combination. In the following, the most important symptoms will be listed: Many babies suffer from swollen, red gums when their molars erupt, which can sometimes become very inflamed.
Especially when the baby puts a dirty hand in its mouth. Also red and hot cheeks are not uncommon. The hand or various objects are put into the mouth and an attempt is made to chew on them.
A restless sleep with frequent crying and crying cramps can be observed. Appetite reduction despite good digestion. Thin bowel movements, even diarrhea is often observed, from which the baby gets a sore bottom.
Constipation occurs less frequently. Heavy drooling due to increased salivary flow. Sometimes teething also coincides with other infections.
Fever and diarrhea are associated with it. The reason is a weakened immune system. If the symptoms worsen or persist for a long time, a visit to a doctor is strongly recommended.
- Many babies suffer from swollen, red gums when their molars erupt, which can sometimes become very inflamed. Especially when the baby puts a dirty hand in its mouth.
- Also red and hot cheeks are not uncommon.
- The hand or various objects are put into the mouth and an attempt is made to chew on them.
- A restless sleep with frequent crying and crying cramps can be observed.
- Appetite reduction despite good digestion.
- Thin bowel movements, even diarrhea is often observed, from which the baby gets a sore bottom. Constipation occurs less frequently.
- Strong drooling due to increased saliva flow.
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