The Truth About Late Teething: Is It Really a Sign of Intelligence?

The Truth About Late Teething: Is It Really a Sign of Intelligence?

The first few years of a child’s life are full of exciting milestones. One of the most eagerly anticipated events is teething. Parents anxiously wait for their baby’s first tooth to appear, and they often compare notes with other parents about when their child began teething. However, what happens if your child is a late teether? Does it mean something is wrong, or does it indicate high intelligence? In this article, we will examine the truth about late teething and uncover the research that suggests it might not be as significant as we thought.

What Is Late Teething?

Before we delve into the association between late teething and intelligence, let’s define what is meant by the term “late teething”. Typically, a baby’s first tooth will appear around six months after birth, although this is not always the case, and some may start teething as early as three months or as late as 12 months. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, late teething is defined as the absence of teeth by the 13th month, which affects only a small number of children.

Myths About Late Teething

For years, people have believed that late teething is a sign of intelligence or a predictor of academic success. The idea came from the concept that children who take longer to develop their teeth are using their brainpower to perform other functions, leading them to have greater mental abilities. However, it is essential to understand that there is no scientific evidence to support this belief.

The Truth About Late Teething

There is no connection between late teething and intelligence. Studies have shown that there is no correlation between teeth development and intellectual capacity. In fact, one interesting study conducted at the University of Missouri found that late teethers had a higher risk of developing tooth decay, suggesting that late teething could be a negative sign.

However, there are several reasons why a child’s teeth may appear later than average. Genetics play a key role, and if the parents or grandparents had a similar experience, it’s likely that the child would too. Nutritional deficiencies, infections, and premature birth can also affect teething. Moreover, some babies are simply late bloomers and develop their teeth at their own pace.

Conclusion

In conclusion, late teething is not a predictor of intelligence. While some people believe it is, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Late teething can occur for a variety of reasons, and parents should not worry if their child is a late teether. However, it is important to seek the advice of a pediatrician if you have concerns about your child’s teething.