Can Babies Be Born with Teeth?

Finding out that your child has teeth at birth can be unexpected and a little worrisome for parents. Although they are not common, babies who are born with teeth—also called to as natal teeth—do exist. The definition of natal teeth, their diagnosis, possible side effects, and how to treat your child if they are born with teeth will all be covered in this article.

What Are Natal Teeth?

Teeth that are present at birth are known as natal teeth. They are not the same as the normal teeth that a baby gets around six months of age. These teeth-bearing newborns often have loose or underdeveloped teeth with inadequately formed roots. In certain instances, they might resemble typical baby teeth, but in others, they might be smaller, shaped like a cone, or even discolored.

Although it may come as a surprise, only about 1 in 2,000 to 3,000 babies are born with teeth. These teeth are frequently immature and can present certain risks.

Common Complications Associated with Natal Teeth

Neonatal teeth can cause some issues as the baby grows, but they are usually not a medical emergency. Here are some possible problems:

1. Problems with feeding: When nursing, the infant may bite the mother, injuring or hurting the nipple.
2. Inhalation Risk: As the infant gets older, there's a chance they might inadvertently breathe in the loose tooth, which could obstruct their airway or present a choking hazard.

It's critical to be aware of these complications and to seek advice from a pediatrician or dentist if you notice any problems with your child.

How Are Natal Teeth Diagnosed?

To diagnose baby teeth, your pediatrician will examine your baby's mouth and check for visible teeth. In some cases, doctors may recommend X-ray examinations to gain a clearer understanding of the structure of the teeth and the tooth roots. X-rays are particularly useful for determining whether teeth are well developed or if there are problems such as discoloration or underdeveloped tooth roots.

What Are the Treatment Options for Natal Teeth?

How you treat baby teeth depends a lot on how they are doing. In many cases, the teeth do not require any intervention. But if the teeth are loose or make it hard to eat, the pediatric dentist may suggest that they be taken out. This is a pretty easy process that can be done with fingers or forceps. If the tooth poses a risk to the baby’s health, removal becomes a necessary step.

Some doctors may also suggest smoothing the edges of the tooth if the baby's tongue is getting hurt by the sharp edges.

Are Natal Teeth Primary Teeth?

There are a lot of parents who are not sure if the birth teeth are temporary teeth and will be replaced by normal baby teeth. This is not right.Most teeth that are present at birth are actually deciduous teeth, which grow very early. They are not temporary teeth that will fall out and be replaced later. In very rare cases, the first tooth that grows out may be an extra one. This is the third tooth, which may cause tooth crowding.

How to take care of a baby born with teeth?

It is necessary to take extra care to keep your baby's mouth clean if they are born with teeth. To stop bacteria from growing, gently wipe your teeth with a soft, moist cloth. You can begin using a baby toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste as soon as your baby's teeth erupt.

If your baby has teeth at birth, should you be concerned?

Although having teeth at birth may seem unusual, it's usually not a huge deal. However, keep an eye out for any indications of trouble eating or anything that could choke them. Regular dental checkups with your child guarantee that any issues can be fixed.

A baby monitor with two-way talk and night vision is an excellent tool to help you keep an eye on your baby, even if you're in another room. These features allow you to monitor your baby's comfort and well-being while also giving you the peace of mind that they're safe while you take care of other tasks.

For example, if your baby is struggling with feeding due to their natal teeth, you can use a VT502 Baby Monitor with video to keep an eye on their movements after meals and check for any signs of discomfort. This will help you decide when it's time to intervene and make sure they are feeding comfortably.

By using a VT502 Baby Monitor with two-way audio, you can even talk to your baby to reassure them, ensuring that both you and your baby are less stressed during feeding sessions or nighttime routines. A baby monitor is not just a tool for safety; it also serves as a bridge for communication and connection, especially for parents of babies with special needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, natal teeth are a fascinating but rare phenomenon that may affect some babies. You may be wondering if it's normal for babies to be born with teeth. The short answer is yes, it is. Most babies born with teeth grow up to have healthy smiles, just like any other child. All they need is the right care. Always don't be afraid to talk to your doctor if you have concerns about your baby's health or feeding habits.