Key takeaways: Natal teeth are present at birth; neonatal teeth appear in the first month. They’re uncommon and usually are early baby teeth, most often the lower front teeth. Loose teeth may be removed because of a choking risk. They can sometimes cause tongue sores or breastfeeding discomfort.
It’s surprising to see a tooth in a newborn’s mouth, but it happens.
What Are Natal and Neonatal Teeth?
- Natal teeth are present at birth.
- Neonatal teeth come in during the first month.
They’re uncommon. Most are early-erupting baby teeth, usually the lower front teeth (central incisors). Occasionally they’re extra teeth. They often have weak roots and may be loose.
Possible Causes
Most occur in otherwise healthy babies. Sometimes there’s a family history. Rarely, they’re associated with certain syndromes, so your baby’s doctor will do a full exam.
Possible Problems
- Choking or aspiration risk if a very loose tooth comes out.
- Sores under the tongue (sometimes called Riga-Fede disease) from the tooth rubbing during feeding.
- Breastfeeding discomfort for the parent.
From the author
From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book starts in the first hours after birth and walks you through every newborn check and the weeks that follow.
Treatment
- Firm teeth that aren’t causing problems are often left in place and monitored.
- Very loose teeth may be removed by a pediatric dentist because of the choking risk. Removal is often delayed until after vitamin K has had time to work, to reduce bleeding risk.
- Smoothing sharp edges may help with tongue sores or breastfeeding discomfort.
- If an early tooth is a baby tooth that’s removed, there may be a gap until the permanent tooth comes in years later.
Breastfeeding
Many babies with natal teeth breastfeed successfully. A deep latch helps. If you have nipple pain or damage, see a lactation consultant and talk with your dentist about smoothing the edge.
Care
Wipe the tooth and gums gently with a soft, damp cloth.
Talk to your baby’s doctor or a pediatric dentist if: a tooth is loose, your baby has a sore under the tongue, or feeding is painful or difficult.
The Bottom Line
Natal teeth are uncommon and usually harmless. A pediatric dentist can decide whether to leave, smooth, or remove them.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Related Articles
- Teething: Real Symptoms, Myths, and Products to Avoid
- Pacifiers and SIDS: What the Research Says
- Epstein Pearls and Bohn’s Nodules: White Bumps in Baby’s Mouth
- Biting During Breastfeeding: Why It Happens and How to Stop It
Sources
- Leung AK, Robson WL. Natal teeth: a review. J Natl Med Assoc. 2006;98(2):226-228.
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Guideline on management considerations for pediatric oral surgery and oral pathology. The Reference Manual of Pediatric Dentistry. Latest revision.
- Meek JY, Noble L; Section on Breastfeeding. Policy statement: breastfeeding and the use of human milk. Pediatrics. 2022;150(1):e2022057988.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
