The first of the milk-teeth is
generally cut about the sixth or seventh month, and the last of the set
at various periods from the twentieth to the thirtieth months. Thus the
whole period occupied by the first dentition may be estimated at from a
year and a half to two years. The process varies, however, in different
individuals, both as to its whole duration, and as to the periods and
order in which the teeth make their appearance. It is unnecessary,
however, to add more upon this point.
Their developement is a natural process. It is too frequently,
however, rendered a painful and difficult one, by errors in the
management of the regimen and health of the infant, previously to the
coming of the teeth, and during the process itself.
Thus, chiefly in consequence of injudicious management, it is made the
most critical period of childhood. Not that I believe the extent of
mortality fairly traceable to it, is by any means so great as has been
stated; for it is rated as high as one sixth of all the children who
undergo it. Still, no one doubts that first dentition is frequently a
period of great danger to the infant. It therefore becomes a very
important question to an anxious and affectionate mother, how the
dangers and difficulties of teething can in any degree be diminished,
or, if possible, altogether prevented.
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