A new parent definitely knows when the little one will start ‘teething’! While for some babies this process is relatively easy, others find it to be quite painful. Quiet rarely, in some cases, babies can even develop teeth at or within few days after birth.
Best child dentist in Jabalpur – Dr.Shilpi Dadarya -Dentist for kids
What Are Natal Teeth And Neonatal Teeth?
Natal teeth, as the name suggests, are teeth present at birth in newborns. Neonatal teeth, on the other hand are teeth that erupt shortly (within the first 30 days) after birth. Both natal and neonatal teeth mostly occur in the front mandibular (Lower jaw) region of the jaws. They are most commonly spotted at birth by the Neonatal team and referred to the Pediatric dentists.
What Are The Characteristics Of Natal Teeth?
Some natal teeth resemble primary teeth, although they are occasionally somewhat immature and supernumerary (extra). At most times they are mobile (wiggly)
- Natal teeth can be smaller than normal primary teeth.
- They can be conical in shape.
- They can have discoloration.
- They can have underdeveloped roots
Best child dentist in Jabalpur – Dr.Shilpi Dadarya -Dentist for kids
What Are The Potential Causes Of A Baby Being Born With Natal Teeth Or Neonatal Teeth?
The exact cause of natal and neonatal teeth in babies is still unknown, but it has been linked to several factors, including genetics, fever, infection, and malnutrition. So far, no research has been able to verify the reason.
Researchers have also linked natal teeth and neonatal teeth with many other syndromes, including the following:
- Cleft lip and palate
- Sotos syndrome
- Ellis-van Creveld syndrome (chondroectodermal dysplasia)
- Jadassohn-Lewandowsky syndrome (congenital pachyonychia)
- Hallermann-Streiff syndrome (oculo mandibulo facial syndrome with hypotrichosis)
What Are The Possible Complications Associated With Natal And Neonatal Teeth?
Complications associated with natal and neonatal teeth can include the following:
- Difficulty in breastfeeding: Natal and neonatal teeth can interfere with a baby’s ability to suckle, so it’s important to take your baby to the dentist if you notice any natal or neonatal teeth.
- Tongue ulceration: As the teeth are sharp, they can cause ulcers on the under surface of the tongue, a condition commonly called ‘Riga Fede Disease’
- Rarely, they can have a risk of aspiration.
If you are concerned about your baby’s natal or neonatal teeth, it is important to speak with your pediatrician or your pediatric dentist as soon as possible for advice on how to best care for these teeth and address any potential complications that they may cause.
Best child dentist in Jabalpur – Dr.Shilpi Dadarya -Dentist for kids
How Are Natal And Neonatal Teeth Treated?
Natal teeth and neonatal teeth can be diagnosed by a physical examination of your baby’s mouth. X-rays may be required. A tooth root that is not completely developed might be visible on an X-ray.
In most cases, when the teeth are loose and cause interfering with breastfeeding, the dentist may decide to remove the tooth. This is also done to reduce the risk of a baby swallowing his or her tooth and breathing it into his or her airways. The teeth could also be removed if they are causing harm to your baby’s tongue. Another alternative is to smooth the top edges of the teeth. This protects your baby’s tongue from damage.
And finally when your baby’s milk teeth start erupting (between age groups 6-12 months), here’s our piece of advice:
Here are some tips by Dr. SHILPI DADARYA To help take Care For Your Baby’s Teeth:
- Brush your baby’s teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and water.
- Use fluoride toothpaste once your baby is old enough to spit out the toothpaste.
- Schedule regular dental checkups for your baby.
- Avoid any sugar-sweetened foods or drinks, which can increase your baby’s risk of tooth decay and other dental problems.
Best child dentist in Jabalpur – Dr.Shilpi Dadarya -Dentist for kids