Understanding Natal Teeth in Babies

Teething is a natural milestone in a baby's first year, typically commencing between 4 to 7 months of age. The first teeth to make an appearance are the central incisors, located at the bottom front. However, in rare instances, a baby may be born with teeth already present; these are known as natal teeth. This phenomenon occurs in approximately 1 in every 2,000 births. While the sight of teeth in a newborn can be surprising, it’s generally not a cause for alarm unless they cause feeding difficulties or pose a choking risk. Parents should consult their pediatrician for guidance if needed.

Causes and Prevalence of Natal Teeth

Natal teeth can arise due to several factors, making them a somewhat enigmatic occurrence. Certain conditions may predispose a baby to be born with teeth:

• Cleft lip or palate
• Irregularities in dentin, the tissue that helps form teeth

Additionally, certain syndromes associated with natal teeth include:

• Sotos syndrome
• Hallerman-Streiff syndrome
• Pierre Robin sequence
• Ellis-van Creveld syndrome

Risk Factors for Natal Teeth

Beyond specific medical conditions, there are a few risk factors that may increase the likelihood of a baby being born with natal teeth:

• Family history: Approximately 15% of babies with natal teeth have siblings or parents who experienced the same.
• Gender: Research indicates that females may have a higher incidence of natal teeth compared to males.
• Maternal nutrition: Malnutrition during pregnancy could also contribute to the occurrence of natal teeth.

Types of Natal Teeth

Natal teeth can be classified into four distinct categories, as determined by a healthcare professional:

• Fully developed, yet loose crowns attached to limited root structures.
• Loose teeth without any roots.
• Small teeth just beginning to emerge from the gums.
• Teeth that are imminently ready to break through the gum line.

Most often, only a single tooth is present at birth, with the lower front teeth being the most common. Multiple natal teeth are exceptionally rare, and it’s important to evaluate these teeth to assess any potential complications and determine if treatment is necessary.

Early Teething: Neonatal Teeth

While some babies are born with teeth, others may experience "neonatal teeth," which emerge shortly after birth. According to the journal Pediatrics, the occurrence of neonatal teeth is even less common than that of natal teeth. Unlike teething symptoms such as drooling or irritability that typically develop a few months post-birth, neonatal teeth can appear unexpectedly within the first few weeks, often without the usual signs of teething.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Natal teeth that are stable and functional are usually monitored without intervention. However, for babies with loose or rootless natal teeth, medical professionals may recommend surgical removal to alleviate risks, which include:

• Choking hazards from accidentally swallowing a loose tooth.
• Feeding complications.
• Potential injuries to the tongue or gums.
• Injury to the breastfeeding mother.

A thorough examination, often including X-rays, will help determine the best course of action if root structures are absent.

Conclusion

Although being born with teeth is a rarity, it remains possible. If your newborn has teeth at birth, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician for advice. Monitoring the infant’s dental situation can help prevent possible complications, leading to healthier outcomes. In cases requiring intervention, a pediatric dentist will provide expert support and guidance.