Eruption of teeth normally begins at the age of?

Appeared in: IGNOU Post B. SC. Nursing entrance -2021

Explanation

The eruption of primary (deciduous) teeth is a key developmental milestone in infancy.
It typically begins around 6 to 7 months of age, which is the most commonly cited average.
The first teeth to appear are almost always the mandibular (lower) central incisors.
Pediatric growth and development charts use this timeframe as a standard reference.

Option A: While some infants may show early signs of teething, the eruption of the first tooth before 5 months is uncommon. This range is considered too early for the average infant.
Option C: This range is plausible as it overlaps with the typical start time. However, the most common period for the very first tooth to break through is centered around 6-7 months, making that option more precise.
Option D: This range is also plausible and covers the eruption of both lower and upper central incisors. However, the question asks when eruption begins, which specifically refers to the first tooth (usually lower incisor). The 6-7 month range better captures this initial event.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Timeline of primary tooth eruption as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating parents about normal developmental milestones, including teething. Providing accurate information helps manage parental expectations and anxiety.
Advising parents on managing teething symptoms (e.g., irritability, drooling) with safe methods like chilled teething rings is a common nursing intervention.
Recognizing delayed eruption (no teeth by 13-15 months) is important for early referral to a pediatrician or pediatric dentist to rule out underlying systemic or nutritional issues.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the core of the question: It asks for the starting age of a specific developmental milestone (tooth eruption).
Recognize this as a factual recall question based on knowledge of normal infant development.
Recall or look up the standard age range for the eruption of the first primary teeth.
Evaluate the given options. Note that several options might seem plausible because there is natural variation. Select the option that represents the most commonly accepted average or standard range.
In this case, 6 months is the key anchor. The range 6-7 months is the most classic and precise answer for the beginning of eruption.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 220-222

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 16-18

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