Teething is an important stage of the growing up years of a baby, however, in some cases a baby may be born with teeth. This does not compulsorily augment worry, as usually it means no harm to the baby or mother. However, it is good to know the possible causes, risks, treatment and myths when a baby is born with teeth.
Can Babies Be Born With Teeth?
Newborn with teeth is a rarity and can occur in one in every 2000-3000 of births. These are also called natal teeth and differ from neonatal teeth or early baby teeth that emerge within the first month of birth.
Why Are Babies Born With Teeth?
The cause of baby born with teeth is predominantly hereditary. About 15 percent of babies born with natal teeth have family members that were born with teeth too. Besides, baby born with teeth causes include, medical conditions, such as, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, Pierre-Robin sequence, Sotos syndrome, Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, Hallerman-Streiff syndrome, as well as, cleft lip and palate. Similarly, nutritional deficiencies and hormonal disturbances during pregnancy can also be causes of natal teeth in babies.
What To Do When Baby Is Born With Teeth?
The opinion of the pediatrician must be sought to understand the nature and placement of the natal teeth. Whereas, mostly natal teeth occur in the lower front followed by upper front teeth, very rarely are babies born with molars. Usually the teeth or tooth is left alone, unless it poses any risk. The doctors are in the best position to decide whether the tooth should be removed, capped or left alone.
A baby born with teeth, risk arises if the tooth is loose and can pose a threat of chocking. Treatment of the baby born with teeth is sought if the baby has tongue injuries, problems while feeding or there is risk of injury to the mother. The constant contact of the tongue and tooth may cause the rubbing of the side of the tongue leading to Riga-Fede syndrome. Besides, the baby may bite the mother while feeding or find it difficult to suck milk in case of natal teeth. Treatment should hence be sought in such cases.
Babies Born With Teeth Myths
Baby born with teeth superstitions are a thing of the past and should not be encouraged, especially in our modern and educational times. In earlier times, when a baby was born with teeth, it meant misfortune and ill luck to the family.
Babies are a source of great joy in our lives and families and every parent want their child to be perfect and healthy. Natal teeth though slightly uncommon do not pose very serious threats to the health and well-being of the baby. Having said that it is advisable to consult the doctor and seek professional opinion. Unless the tooth or teeth are causing any harm or risk to the baby or mother, the natal teeth can be treated as normal milk teeth and should be taken care of, cleaned, washed and brushed in the usual fashion until they fall off around 5-7 years.
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