Natal teeth

Alternative names:

fetal teeth

Home care:

If the teeth are not removed, keep them clean by gently wiping the gums and teeth with a clean, damp cloth. Examine the infant's gums and tongue frequently to make sure the baby is not injuring his or her tongue.

Call your health care provider if:

• an infant with natal teeth that have been left in place develops a sore tongue or mouth.
• other symptoms develop.

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

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

Documenting natal teeth in detail may include:

• Were any other family members born with teeth?
  • Did they later develop any problems?

• Are any other symptoms present?

Note: This finding is usually discovered by the health care provider during the initial examination of the infant, and often no further documentation is needed other than just to note that there were teeth present at birth.

The physical examination will include thorough examination of the mouth, and dental X-rays may be considered. If there are signs of any condition that can be associated with natal teeth, examination and testing for that condition will be performed.

Note: Most often natal teeth occurs as an isolated incident.

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider associated with the presence of natal teeth, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.