Most babies start teething around 6 months old, but anything from about 3–4 months to 12 months can still be normal. By age 3, most children have their full set of baby teeth.

How soon do babies start teething?

Teething is the process of baby teeth pushing through the gums. It doesn’t start at the exact same time for every baby, and there is a wide “normal” window.

Typical age range

  • Most babies: first tooth around 6 months.
  • Common range: 4–7 months for the first visible tooth.
  • Early teethers: some show teeth as early as 3–4 months.
  • Later teethers: some don’t get a first tooth until 8–12 months (still usually normal if growth and development are otherwise fine).

A simple example: one baby might get a first tooth at 4 months and have 4 teeth by 11 months, while another might not cut the first tooth until 9 months but then catch up quickly.

What shows up first?

  • First to appear: usually the two lower front teeth (lower central incisors).
  • Next: the four upper front teeth (upper central and lateral incisors).
  • Later: lower lateral incisors, then molars, then canines over the next couple of years.

By about 2–3 years old, many children have 20 baby teeth in place.

Early signs before you see a tooth

Babies often “start teething” (meaning teeth are moving under the gums) a bit before you see anything. You may notice:

  • More drooling.
  • Chewing or gnawing on hands, toys, or anything nearby.
  • Irritability or fussiness, especially at night.
  • Slightly swollen or sensitive gums.

These signs can start a couple of months before the first tooth appears, often around 2–4 months.

When to talk to a doctor or dentist

Most variations are normal, but it’s worth checking in if:

  • No teeth at all by about 12–18 months.
  • Your baby seems in a lot of pain, very unwell, or has a high fever (teething alone should not cause a high fever or serious illness).
  • You notice unusual gum changes, or teeth seem to be coming in in a very unexpected place.

A pediatrician or pediatric dentist can check whether everything looks on track and reassure you.

Quick FAQ

Is it normal for a 3‑month‑old to seem like they’re teething?
Yes, babies can drool and chew from 2–3 months as teeth move under the gums, even if no tooth shows until later.

Is it a problem if my 9‑month‑old has no teeth yet?
Many babies who start teething later are still within normal limits; if you’re worried, ask your pediatrician, but late teething alone usually isn’t a sign of a serious issue.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.