What to Do When a Baby is Born with Teeth

The Importance of Early Teething and Being Born with Teeth in Babies

It can be surprising for parents when babies are born with teeth or when teeth appear in their first months of life. This condition is usually seen in the lower incisors, although in some babies the molars can also be affected. Being born with teeth can have various effects on the health of babies. In this article, we will discuss the causes of babies being born with teeth and early teething, possible risks and points to be careful about.

What Causes Teeth Birth?

There are several reasons why babies are born with teeth. These include genetic factors, excessive tooth development, and premature eruption of baby teeth. Genetic predisposition is associated with the presence of similar conditions in the family. If there are babies born with teeth in your family, the likelihood of this condition recurring increases. In addition, excessive tooth development can lead to abnormalities in the number of teeth. It is important to have such conditions evaluated by a pediatrician.

Early Teething Signs

Babies usually start teething between 6 and 12 months. However, some babies may start teething at an earlier age. If you notice that your baby is born with teeth or has teething within the first 30 days, you should watch for important signs. These signs include:

  • Baby's restlessness
  • Having pain or difficulty while feeding
  • Sores on the nipple

Such situations can negatively affect the baby's nutrition and be a source of concern for parents.

Risk of Respiratory Tract Aspiration

Dr. Nurgül Demir states that teeth usually have roots that are not fully developed and only hold onto the gums. This can cause the tooth to become loose. There is a risk of the tooth getting stuck in the trachea during activities such as feeding or thumb sucking. Therefore, parents need to be very careful and monitor the baby.

Feeding Difficulties and Breastfeeding Problems

In babies born with teeth, there may be some difficulties between the mother and the baby during breastfeeding. Both the baby's restlessness and the emergence of sores on the mother's nipple can negatively affect the breastfeeding process. Such situations can cause insufficient breast milk. Therefore, it is important for parents to take appropriate precautions by taking this situation into account.

Treatment and Follow-up Process

In cases where babies are born with teeth or teething early, it is very important to consult a pediatric dentist. In cases where a tooth is loose or makes it difficult for the baby to feed, an ideal treatment plan should be created in line with the doctor's recommendations. If a tooth extraction is necessary during the newborn period, approval must be obtained from a pediatrician. Early intervention is vital for the baby's health.

Recommendations for Families

  • If your baby was born with teeth or you notice teething within the first 30 days, consult a pediatric dentist immediately.
  • Be extra careful with loose teeth to avoid the risk of airway obstruction.
  • Take measures to treat situations such as discomfort during feeding or pain experienced by the mother.
  • If a newborn tooth extraction is necessary, perform the procedure with the approval of the pediatrician.

As a result

The situation of babies being born with teeth and teething early is a matter that needs to be taken into consideration. It is of great importance for parents to contact their child health specialists and take the necessary precautions during this process. It should not be forgotten that healthy tooth development plays a critical role in the baby's overall health.