Why Baby Teeth Might Arrive Later
For most babies, the first tooth appears between 6 and 10 months. But for many children with Down syndrome, teeth may not appear until around 12 to 24 months — sometimes even later. This delay is completely normal and linked to differences in physical development that are part of Down syndrome.
Here’s why it happens:
When those teeth do arrive, the order might also look a little different. Instead of the usual bottom front teeth appearing first, your child might get upper teeth, molars, or canines first. Every child’s sequence is unique — and that’s perfectly fine.
👉 The important thing to remember: late or out-of-order tooth eruption doesn’t mean something is wrong. It just means your child’s body is moving at its own pace.
🪥 Caring for Baby Teeth (Even Before They Arrive)
Dental care actually starts before the first tooth appears! Healthy gums create a healthy foundation for strong teeth.
Here’s how to start:
If your child resists brushing (which is very common) try turning it into a game or part of playtime. Many children with Down syndrome have sensory sensitivities, and the feeling of a toothbrush can be uncomfortable at first. The key is patience and making brushing fun and familiar.
🌈 Tips to Help Your Child Feel Comfortable
With Brushing Oral care can be tricky for children who are sensitive to new sensations, textures, or routines.
Here are some gentle strategies that can help:
1. Introduce the toothbrush early and playfully: Let your child hold, chew, or explore the toothbrush during playtime before brushing begins. This helps them become familiar with the texture and shape.
2. Brush together: Children love to imitate, seeing you brush your own teeth can encourage them to copy you. Try brushing side by side or even taking turns brushing each other’s teeth (pretend brushing for you, of course!).
3. Use a mirror: Some children feel more comfortable when they can see what’s happening. Brushing in front of a mirror gives them a sense of control and predictability.
4. Try different toothbrushes: Electric toothbrushes, finger brushes, or extra-soft bristles can make a big difference. Some children prefer the gentle vibration of an electric brush; others like the control of a small manual brush.
5. Add music or a favourite song: Sing a short brushing song (there are plenty of fun ones online) or use a two-minute timer app to make it more enjoyable.
6. Offer choices: Give your child a sense of independence — “Do you want the blue toothbrush or the green one?” or “Should we brush top teeth or bottom teeth first?”
7. Celebrate every success: Whether they let you brush for 5 seconds or 20, praise their effort. Consistent, positive experiences build trust and routine.
👶 When to See a Dentist
Even if your child doesn’t have many teeth yet, it’s a good idea to schedule a first dental visit around their first birthday — or within six months after the first tooth appears.
Here’s what a paediatric dentist can help with:
Children with Down syndrome may have smaller jaws, which can cause teeth to come in closer together or overlap slightly. Regular dental checkups will help manage this early on and prevent future issues.
🧠 Remember: It’s About Comfort, Not Perfection
The goal at this stage isn’t perfect brushing, it’s familiarity, comfort, and routine. Think of toothbrushing as a long-term learning process. The more positive experiences your child has now, the easier dental care will be in the years ahead.
It’s also perfectly okay if your child isn’t yet brushing independently or needs your help for a long time. Every small step — from tolerating the toothbrush to brushing a few teeth — is progress worth celebrating.
🌟 Key Takeaway
Tooth eruption in children with Down syndrome often takes a little longer, and that’s completely normal. With gentle care, patience, and playful routines, your child will learn to enjoy brushing and build lifelong healthy habits. Remember, your child’s timeline is their own and every new tooth is a tiny victory worth celebrating. 💛
For most babies, the first tooth appears between 6 and 10 months. But for many children with Down syndrome, teeth may not appear until around 12 to 24 months — sometimes even later. This delay is completely normal and linked to differences in physical development that are part of Down syndrome.
Here’s why it happens:
- Overall growth and development are slower — and that includes dental growth.
- Differences in bone development in the jaws and skull can influence how and when teeth push through.
- Tooth formation may take longer, meaning the teeth themselves might develop more slowly beneath the gums before appearing.
When those teeth do arrive, the order might also look a little different. Instead of the usual bottom front teeth appearing first, your child might get upper teeth, molars, or canines first. Every child’s sequence is unique — and that’s perfectly fine.
👉 The important thing to remember: late or out-of-order tooth eruption doesn’t mean something is wrong. It just means your child’s body is moving at its own pace.
🪥 Caring for Baby Teeth (Even Before They Arrive)
Dental care actually starts before the first tooth appears! Healthy gums create a healthy foundation for strong teeth.
Here’s how to start:
- Clean your baby’s gums daily — Use a soft, damp cloth or a silicone finger brush to gently wipe their gums after feeding. This removes bacteria and helps your baby get used to the feeling of oral care.
- Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears — Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear (about the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste.
- Make it part of your routine — Brushing twice a day (morning and night) helps establish a habit early on.
If your child resists brushing (which is very common) try turning it into a game or part of playtime. Many children with Down syndrome have sensory sensitivities, and the feeling of a toothbrush can be uncomfortable at first. The key is patience and making brushing fun and familiar.
🌈 Tips to Help Your Child Feel Comfortable
With Brushing Oral care can be tricky for children who are sensitive to new sensations, textures, or routines.
Here are some gentle strategies that can help:
1. Introduce the toothbrush early and playfully: Let your child hold, chew, or explore the toothbrush during playtime before brushing begins. This helps them become familiar with the texture and shape.
2. Brush together: Children love to imitate, seeing you brush your own teeth can encourage them to copy you. Try brushing side by side or even taking turns brushing each other’s teeth (pretend brushing for you, of course!).
3. Use a mirror: Some children feel more comfortable when they can see what’s happening. Brushing in front of a mirror gives them a sense of control and predictability.
4. Try different toothbrushes: Electric toothbrushes, finger brushes, or extra-soft bristles can make a big difference. Some children prefer the gentle vibration of an electric brush; others like the control of a small manual brush.
5. Add music or a favourite song: Sing a short brushing song (there are plenty of fun ones online) or use a two-minute timer app to make it more enjoyable.
6. Offer choices: Give your child a sense of independence — “Do you want the blue toothbrush or the green one?” or “Should we brush top teeth or bottom teeth first?”
7. Celebrate every success: Whether they let you brush for 5 seconds or 20, praise their effort. Consistent, positive experiences build trust and routine.
👶 When to See a Dentist
Even if your child doesn’t have many teeth yet, it’s a good idea to schedule a first dental visit around their first birthday — or within six months after the first tooth appears.
Here’s what a paediatric dentist can help with:
- Checking the growth and alignment of teeth and jaws
- Giving you tips on brushing and oral hygiene
- Monitoring for common issues like delayed eruption or crowding
- Offering guidance if your child has feeding, swallowing, or sensory challenges
Children with Down syndrome may have smaller jaws, which can cause teeth to come in closer together or overlap slightly. Regular dental checkups will help manage this early on and prevent future issues.
🧠 Remember: It’s About Comfort, Not Perfection
The goal at this stage isn’t perfect brushing, it’s familiarity, comfort, and routine. Think of toothbrushing as a long-term learning process. The more positive experiences your child has now, the easier dental care will be in the years ahead.
It’s also perfectly okay if your child isn’t yet brushing independently or needs your help for a long time. Every small step — from tolerating the toothbrush to brushing a few teeth — is progress worth celebrating.
🌟 Key Takeaway
Tooth eruption in children with Down syndrome often takes a little longer, and that’s completely normal. With gentle care, patience, and playful routines, your child will learn to enjoy brushing and build lifelong healthy habits. Remember, your child’s timeline is their own and every new tooth is a tiny victory worth celebrating. 💛
For Parents and Parents-to-Be of Children with Down Syndrome
Disclaimer: The information provided on Small Steps Online is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, therapeutic, or developmental advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers, therapists, or relevant professionals regarding your child’s specific needs and situation. The September Institute and Small Steps Online are not liable for any outcomes resulting from the use or misuse of the information shared here.
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