Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD, Patient Handout
6 Month Old Frequently Asked Questions

WHEN CAN I EXPECT MY BABY TO GET HIS FIRST TOOTH?
The first tooth will normally erupt between 6 and 8 months of age and is usually one of the central incisors on the lower gumline.

WHAT IS TEETHING AND WHAT CAN I DO FOR MY BABY WHEN IT BEGINS?
Teething is the process whereby teeth migrate through the gums into the mouth. Therefore, it is occurring from birth until the baby has erupted all of his primary teeth. Symptoms of teething may include fever from 38.2 degrees Celsius to 38.6 degrees Celsius, fussiness, drooling, and loose stools. The use of acetaminophen can help with the fever and fussiness, and topical anesthetics such as Anbesol or Orajel rubbed onto the infant’s gums can help with the discomfort of teething.

WHEN CAN I EXPECT STRANGER ANXIETY TO DEVELOP?
Stranger anxiety is a common developmental stage during which children show a distinct preference for their primary caregiver (usually their mother) and an obvious dissatisfaction with being separated from them. They may appear to be frightened when away or at least when initially separated from their caregiver but usually within a few minutes the crying and upset will subside. Children may begin to show signs of stranger anxiety as early as 6 months of age. This is a normal phenomenon and may last until 18 to 24 months of age.

WHEN DOES MY CHILD RETURN FOR HIS NEXT HEALTH SUPERVISION VISIT?
At 9 months of age your child should have his next health supervision visit.