If all the babies around yours seem to be flashing tiny new teeth while your little one’s gums are still bare, it’s easy to start worrying. I felt that flutter of “is everything okay?” too. So let me reassure you right away: a baby getting their first tooth a little later than the others is almost always completely normal — and rarely a sign that anything is wrong.
🦷 The reassuring truth
Most babies get their first tooth around 6 months, but anywhere up to about 12 months (and sometimes a little beyond) is still within the normal range. The single most common reason for late teething is simply genetics — if you or your partner got your teeth late, your baby often will too. Late teeth do not mean a slow or unhealthy baby.
What counts as “late” teething?
Teething timelines vary hugely from baby to baby. As a rough guide, the first tooth usually appears between 6 and 12 months, and most children have their full set of about 20 milk teeth by around two-and-a-half to three years. If your baby is heading past their first birthday with no teeth yet, it’s worth a mention at your next check-up — but on its own, it’s usually nothing to worry about.
Why baby teeth may come in late
1. Genetics (by far the most common reason)
Late teething very often simply runs in the family. Ask your own parents when you and your partner got your first teeth — you’ll often find the answer to your baby’s timeline right there.
2. Premature birth or low birth weight
Babies born early or small often reach milestones — including teething — a little later, usually catching up in their own time. Counting from the due date rather than the birth date gives a fairer picture.
3. Nutrition
Growing teeth need the right building blocks — especially calcium and vitamin D. Most well-fed, breastfed or formula-fed babies get what they need, but if you have any concerns about your baby’s diet or vitamin D, your paediatrician can advise.
4. Underlying medical reasons (rare)
Occasionally, delayed teething is linked to conditions such as an underactive thyroid or other developmental issues, or to certain medications. These are uncommon, and a doctor will usually spot them alongside other signs — not from late teeth alone.
Tips for parents while you wait
- Try not to compare. Every baby has their own timetable — a bare-gummed baby at 10 months is in very good company.
- Keep gums clean. Even before teeth arrive, wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeds to keep the mouth healthy and ready.
- Offer safe things to gnaw. A clean, cool (not frozen) teether keeps your baby comfortable as those teeth work their way up.
- Feed a balanced diet. Once on solids, include calcium-rich foods and get some safe sunlight for vitamin D.
- Mention it at check-ups. Bring it up at routine visits so your doctor can reassure you or check if needed.
⚠️ When to see a dentist or doctor
It’s worth getting your baby checked if:
- There are no teeth at all by around 15–18 months — a paediatric dentist can take a quick look (sometimes an X-ray) to confirm all is well.
- Late teething comes alongside other delays (in growth, weight, or reaching milestones).
- You notice anything unusual about the gums, mouth or the way teeth are coming through.
Dentists generally recommend a first dental visit by your baby’s first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth — whichever comes first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for a 1-year-old to have no teeth?
Yes, it can be. While many babies have a few teeth by their first birthday, some perfectly healthy babies get their first tooth around 12–15 months, usually due to genetics. Mention it at your check-up, but on its own it’s rarely a concern.
Does late teething mean weak teeth?
No. The timing of teething has nothing to do with how strong or healthy the teeth will be. A baby whose teeth arrive late can have perfectly strong, healthy teeth.
Can I do anything to make teeth come faster?
Not really — teeth arrive on their own genetic schedule. What you can do is keep your baby’s gums clean, offer a balanced diet with enough calcium and vitamin D, and be patient. They’ll come when they’re ready.
When should I worry about late teething?
See a paediatric dentist if there are no teeth by around 15–18 months, or if late teething comes with other developmental delays. Otherwise, a slightly late first tooth is usually just your baby’s normal timeline.
A gentle last word
Late teething is one of those milestones that feels worrying in the moment but almost always turns out to be perfectly normal — usually just a family trait. Keep those gums clean, offer safe teethers, and try to enjoy that gummy smile a little longer. The teeth will come.
You might also like my guides on baby teething, when to start brushing baby’s teeth, and preventing baby tooth decay.
This article is general information from one parent to another and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your paediatrician or dentist about your baby’s specific needs.
