My 11 Month Old Only Has 2 Teeth
It's common for babies to start teething around 6 months old, but some babies may not get their first tooth until much later. If your 11 month old only has 2 teeth, you may be wondering if this is normal. In this article, we'll discuss what to expect when it comes to teething and what you can do to help your baby through this process.
When Do Babies Typically Start Teething?
Most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months old, but it's not uncommon for some babies to start teething as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. The timing of teething can vary based on genetics, but it's important to note that there's no "right" time for a baby to start teething.
What Are the Signs of Teething?
Teething can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Irritability or fussiness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Drooling
- Biting or gnawing on objects
- Swollen or tender gums
- Refusing to eat
Why Might My 11 Month Old Only Have 2 Teeth?
There are a few reasons why your 11 month old only has 2 teeth:
- Timing: As mentioned earlier, the timing of teething can vary. Some babies may not get their first tooth until after their first birthday.
- Genetics: The age at which a baby starts teething can be influenced by genetics. If you or your partner didn't get your first tooth until later, your baby may follow suit.
- Other factors: Certain medical conditions or medications can delay the onset of teething.
What Can I Do to Help My Baby Through Teething?
There are a few things you can do to help ease your baby's discomfort during teething:
- Offer a teething toy: A teething toy can provide a safe and soothing way for your baby to relieve their discomfort.
- Massage your baby's gums: Gently massaging your baby's gums with a clean finger can help to relieve some of the pressure from teething.
- Use a cold compress: A cold washcloth or teething ring can provide relief for sore gums.
- Offer cold foods: Cold foods, such as yogurt or pureed fruit, can help to soothe sore gums.
- Consider pain relief: If your baby is in significant pain, you may want to talk to your pediatrician about using a pain reliever, such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
When Should I Be Concerned?
If your baby is otherwise healthy and meeting their developmental milestones, there's likely no need to be concerned if they only have 2 teeth at 11 months old. However, if your baby is not meeting their developmental milestones or if you have concerns about their overall health, it's important to talk to your pediatrician.
The Bottom Line
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, but it's important to remember that it's a normal part of development. If your 11 month old only has 2 teeth, it's likely nothing to be concerned about. If you have concerns or questions, don't hesitate to talk to your pediatrician.