Tooth formation - delayed or absent

Alternative names:

delayed or absent tooth formation; teeth - delayed or absent formation

Home care:

Call your health care provider if:

• your child has not developed any teeth by the time the child is 9 months old.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting delayed or absent teeth in detail may include:

• Have any of the teeth emerged?
  • Which teeth emerged and in what order?
  • Are the existing teeth abnormal in any way?

• At what age did other family members develop teeth?
• What other symptoms are also present?

An infant with delayed or absent tooth formation may have other symptoms and signs that, when taken together, define a specific syndrome or condition. The physical examination will include a detailed examination of the mouth and gums.

Diagnostic tests are usually not necessary unless a disorder is suspected as the cause of delayed or absent tooth formation. Most often, delayed tooth formation is a normal finding. Occasionally, dental x-rays will be needed.

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider as the cause of delayed or absent tooth formation, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.