My baby has got 4 upper teeths, but no teeth on the lower side yet. she is 16 months old.
Is this normal?

Question

Accepted Answer

It's relatively common for babies to have variations in the timing and order of tooth eruption. However, here's what you should know:

### Typical Tooth Eruption Patterns:

1. **General Timeline**:
   - **Upper Teeth**: Usually, the upper central incisors (front teeth) come in first, followed by the lateral incisors.
   - **Lower Teeth**: The lower central incisors typically come in around the same time or slightly after the upper ones.

2. **Order and Timing**:
   - Most babies get their lower central incisors before the upper lateral incisors, but variations are normal. By 16 months, many children have their upper central incisors and are starting to get their lower teeth.

### When to be Concerned:

1. **Delayed Eruption**:
   - If your baby has no lower teeth by 16 months, it is a bit delayed compared to typical patterns. However, this alone isn’t usually a cause for concern unless it’s accompanied by other issues.

2. **Other Symptoms**:
   - Look for signs of discomfort or other issues with eating, speaking, or oral health.

### What You Can Do:

1. **Monitor**:
   - Keep an eye on your baby's oral development. The lower teeth may come in soon.

2. **Consult a Dentist**:
   - If you're concerned or if there are no signs of lower teeth coming in by around 18-24 months, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatric dentist. They can provide an evaluation to ensure there are no underlying issues.

3. **Oral Care**:
   - Continue with good oral hygiene practices, including brushing your baby’s teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

### Summary:

It is not unusual for the upper teeth to come in before the lower ones, and each child develops at their own pace. If there are no additional symptoms or concerns, it’s likely just a variation of normal development. However, consulting with a pediatric dentist can provide reassurance and address any specific concerns you might have.

My baby has got 4 upper teeths, but no teeth on the lower side yet. she is 16 months old. Is this normal?