Long before the first tooth erupts, parents are already looking forward to their baby’s first milestone. In fact, the common belief that late teethers are more intelligent than early ones has been around for a while. After all, it seems to make sense that the more time the brain spends developing, the smarter the child will be. However, how much of this belief is truth and how much is just a myth? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this assumption and see whether late teething is really a sign of intelligence or just an old wives’ tale.
First of all, we need to understand what teething is. In simple terms, teething is the process where a baby’s teeth erupt through the gums. Babies usually start teething around six months old, but some babies may start as early as three months while others may not show any signs until they are 12 months old. Although there can be individual variations, both early and late teething are considered within the range of normal development.
Now, let’s address the notion that late teethers are smarter than early ones. There is no scientific evidence to support this claim, so it is merely a myth. Teeth and brain development are two separate events that occur independently of each other. Teeth are just a physical marker of development that can be easily observed, while intelligence is a complex combination of genetics, environment, and experiences.
In fact, some studies indicate that early teethers may be slightly ahead in their developmental milestones. For example, a study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that babies with earlier teeth had better fine motor development than late teethers. This could be attributed to the fact that babies who start teething earlier get more practice using their mouth muscles, which can facilitate the development of other motor skills like crawling and walking.
It’s also worth noting that the timing of teething can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as genetics, nutrition, and overall health. Delayed teething can be related to factors such as premature birth, low birth weight, and certain medical conditions. Therefore, if a baby experiences late teething, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are gifted or lacking in intelligence.
In conclusion, there is no evidence-based correlation between late teething and intelligence. Teething is just one part of a baby’s physical development, and while it can be exciting for parents to anticipate this milestone, it should not be used as an indicator of a child’s intellect. Early or late teething is both considered normal, and there are a variety of factors that can influence the timing of a baby’s first tooth. If you are concerned about your baby’s teething development, consult your pediatrician or dental professional for guidance. Remember, it’s important to cherish and enjoy all stages of your baby’s growth and development, regardless of when their teeth first appear.
