A worried parent contacts you because their 5-month-old baby has not yet developed any teeth. What is the most appropriate response?
Explanation
At 5 months old, it is common for infants to have no teeth yet, as teething typically begins between 6 to 10 months. Therefore, reassuring the parent that this is normal is the best approach. Immediate radiographic evaluation or assuming growth or systemic problems is unnecessary unless other symptoms are present.