Quick Answers
It is very rare for a baby to be born with teeth. When it does happen, it is called natal teeth or neonatal teeth. The teeth are usually the baby’s normal primary (baby) teeth that have erupted prematurely while the baby is still in the womb. Natal teeth do not cause long-term problems as long as they are cared for properly to avoid issues like tooth decay. Treatment may involve removal of the teeth if they are loose or pose a risk for injury or interference with feeding. With proper dental care, babies born with teeth develop normal adult teeth later on.
What Causes Babies to Be Born with Teeth?
Most babies are born without any teeth. Teeth typically start erupting around 6 months of age. So when a baby is born with teeth already erupted, it is unusual. Some potential causes of natal teeth include:
– Genetics – Some babies may be born with teeth due to inherited genetic factors. Having a parent or sibling that was born with natal teeth increases the chances.
– Hyperactivity of the infant’s dental lamina – The dental lamina is tissue in the baby’s gums that eventually forms the teeth. Hyperactivity can cause early development and eruption.
– Environmental factors in the womb – Certain illnesses or nutritional deficiencies in the mother may affect the baby’s tooth formation.
– Problems with infant’s Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath – This is tissue that guides tooth eruption. Disruption in development may cause premature eruption.
– Osteoblastic activity in the tooth bud – This is increased cell activity that promotes bone and tooth formation. Higher levels can lead to premature eruption.
– Infection or trauma to the infant’s mouth during pregnancy – This could displace developing teeth into the mouth.
So in most cases, natal teeth are caused by genetic and developmental factors affecting tooth formation and emergence.
Signs and Symptoms of Natal Teeth
Natal teeth are easily noticeable as one or more teeth present in the infant’s mouth at birth. Signs and symptoms include:
– Presence of one or more teeth protruding through the gums at birth
– Teeth are frequently located in the lower front area, but can occur anywhere
– Teeth are typically small and can be poorly rooted in the gums
– Teeth may be loose and wiggly, presenting a choking risk if they fall out
– Infant is at increased risk for injury to the tongue during breast or bottle feeding
– Natal teeth may interfere with the infant’s ability to properly latch for nursing
– Teeth often appear creamier in color compared to normal white teeth
– Gums may be irritated, red, and inflamed around the natal teeth
So parents should inspect their newborn’s mouth carefully for any signs of erupted teeth and inform their pediatrician if found.
Risks and Complications of Natal Teeth
While natal teeth are uncommon, parents should be aware of certain risks and complications that can potentially occur:
– Injury – Loose, sharp teeth may lacerate the infant’s tongue or cheeks.
– Choking – If a natal tooth falls out prematurely, the baby could choke during feeding.
– Feeding difficulties – Teeth may interfere with breastfeeding or cause excessive crying.
– Tooth decay – Natal teeth are prone to cavities if not cleaned properly.
– Irritation – Sharp teeth may irritate and inflame gums.
– Speech problems – Erupted teeth can alter the mouth’s architecture and speech development.
– Social issues – Some people associate natal teeth with vampires or the “evil eye”, leading to social concerns.
However, most complications can be avoided with proper prenatal education, dental evaluation after birth, and good oral hygiene. Regular dental visits are key.
How are Natal Teeth Diagnosed?
Natal teeth are easily diagnosed by physical examination after delivery or at the first newborn checkup. The doctor or pediatrician will look inside the infant’s mouth for any erupted teeth. An oral inspection will check for the number of teeth present, their position, root development, and any signs of looseness or problems. If there are any concerns, the baby may be referred to a pediatric dentist for further evaluation. Special imaging tests are not typically needed. The teeth can be obviously seen and felt during a standard mouth examination by a qualified clinician.
Treatment and Management of Natal Teeth
Treatment depends on the pediatric dentist’s evaluation, including number of teeth, tooth looseness, and potential for injury or feeding problems. Options may include:
– Monitoring – If the natal teeth are healthy and stable, they may be left alone and monitored at regular dental visits.
– Smoothing – Sharp edges may be smoothed down to prevent tongue injury.
– Antibiotics – If gums are red or inflamed, antibiotics may be prescribed.
– Removal – Very loose teeth are often extracted to prevent choking hazards.
– Feeding aid – A supplemental nursing system can make feeding easier.
– Mouthguard – A custom mouthguard can prevent injury.
– Fluoride – Fluoride treatments may help prevent cavities.
– Dental hygiene – Gently brushing teeth and gums daily is important for oral health.
With the pediatric dentist’s guidance, natal teeth can be effectively managed. In most cases, removal is not necessary. Close monitoring and excellent oral hygiene helps promote healthy teeth and gums.
Outlook and Prognosis for Infants with Natal Teeth
In the majority of cases, natal teeth do not cause any long-term health issues. As long as the teeth are treated properly and monitored by a dentist, infants with natal teeth go on to develop normal teeth and have good oral health.
The natal teeth are often lost and replaced by regular teeth later on. The presence of natal teeth does not disrupt normal tooth development. There are typically no speech or teeth alignment problems down the road.
However, infants with natal teeth require special attention and dental care initially after birth. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits must be established early to prevent tooth decay or oral infection related to the natal teeth. As long as families work closely with their pediatrician and dentist, the outlook is excellent.
Preventing Natal Teeth During Pregnancy
There are no guaranteed ways to prevent natal teeth during pregnancy. Since the exact causes are often unclear, women cannot eliminate the chance of natal teeth forming. However, pregnant women can optimize dental health:
– Receive routine dental cleanings and exams
– Treat any cavities or gum disease
– Meet nutritional needs with a balanced diet
– Take prenatal vitamins with appropriate levels of calcium and phosphorus
– Avoid smoking, alcohol, toxins, and medications that could impact dental development
– Manage illnesses properly like hypocalcemia
– Get regular prenatal care and ultrasounds to monitor fetal growth
While following these steps does not ensure a zero chance of natal teeth, they support healthy development and minimize risks. If natal teeth do occur, they can be properly managed after delivery.
Parent Education About Natal Teeth
Since natal teeth are uncommon, many parents are unaware of the condition and how to care for their newborn if teeth are present. Key education points include:
– Natal teeth erupt due to developmental factors and are not preventable. Do not feel guilty.
– Seek dental evaluation shortly after delivery for assessment.
– Learn proper cleaning techniques to keep natal teeth and gums healthy.
– Handling techniques can allow safe breastfeeding. Seek lactation support.
– Report any injuries, feeding issues, or tooth looseness immediately.
– Teeth may require smoothing or removal if problematic. This protects the infant.
– Monitor teeth routinely until the natal teeth exfoliate around 6-12 months old.
– Schedule the first dental visit no later than 12 months old.
– Natal teeth are not indicative of long-term dental problems. Baby teeth and adult teeth develop normally.
Educating families about natal teeth facilitates optimal care and reassures parents that their newborn will have healthy teeth and gums long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are natal teeth hereditary?
Natal teeth do tend to run in families, implying a genetic component. Having a parent, sibling or close relative with natal teeth increases the likelihood of their occurrence. However, they also occur sporadically without a clear hereditary link.
Do natal teeth need to be removed?
Not necessarily. The pediatric dentist will assess whether the natal teeth are stable and can be left in place or have a high risk of problems. Very loose or sharp teeth often require removal. But healthy, stable natal teeth may be monitored instead.
Does the presence of natal teeth mean other dental problems?
No, natal teeth are not predictive of future dental issues. They occur due to early eruption, but permanent teeth still develop normally. As long as natal teeth are cared for, the child will have a healthy mouth.
Do babies with natal teeth struggle with breastfeeding?
They may initially have some difficulties latching and nursing comfortably. But lactation consultants can provide specialized feeding devices and positioning adjustments to allow successful breastfeeding. Formula feeding is another option.
How can I reduce infant tooth decay with natal teeth?
Maintain excellent oral hygiene by gently cleaning the teeth and gums daily. Avoid sugary foods or drinks that can cause cavities. Use an infant toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste recommended by your pediatric dentist.
Conclusion
Natal teeth present at birth are an uncommon but treatable dental condition. With proper prenatal care, evaluation after delivery, and meticulous infant oral hygiene, natal teeth can be managed safely. Working closely with pediatricians and dentists allows parents to protect their newborn’s oral health. Monitoring and possible tooth removal reduces major risks. Overall, infants with natal teeth can thrive and develop normal dentition when families understand the treatment options. With proper care, natal teeth resolve on their own without long-term problems.
