Natal Teeth refers to a relatively rare dental condition in which one or more teeth are already present in an infant's mouth at the time of birth. These teeth, commonly known as natal teeth, typically appear in the lower front part of the mouth, although they can occasionally be found in other areas as well. Natal teeth are generally categorized into two types: neonatal teeth and prenatal teeth.
Neonatal teeth are those that erupt within the first month after birth, whereas prenatal teeth are those that are already present at the time of delivery. The exact cause of natal teeth is not fully understood, but various factors, including genetic predisposition and certain medical conditions, are believed to contribute to their occurrence.
Natal teeth often exhibit certain characteristics, such as small size, mobility, inadequate root development, abnormal shape, or lack of full enamel coverage. Due to these abnormalities, natal teeth can potentially cause several complications for the infant, including feeding difficulties, oral discomfort, pain, and the risk of aspiration or swallowing the tooth.
In some cases, if natal teeth are causing issues or posing a risk, they may need to be removed, typically by a qualified dental professional. However, the decision to extract natal teeth is dependent on several factors, including the infant's general health, the level of risk involved, and the potential for complications.
Overall, natal teeth is a dental condition characterized by the presence of teeth in an infant's mouth at birth, requiring careful evaluation and appropriate management to ensure the well-being of the newborn.
