Neonatal / Natal Teeth: What Every Mother Needs to Know
At Dr. Pavani’s Dentistry, we understand that your baby’s health is important. If your baby has teeth that appear early, this is called neonatal / Natal teeth. These teeth can come right after birth or within the first few weeks.
What are Neonatal Teeth?
Appearance: Neonatal teeth usually appear within the first 30 days of life but not at birth.
Location: Like natal teeth, they are usually lower front teeth.
Rarity: Neonatal teeth are more common than natal teeth and generally do not cause problems unless they are loose or misaligned.
What are Natal Teeth?
Appearance: Natal teeth are present at birth.
Location: Typically, they are lower front teeth (incisors).
Rarity: Natal teeth are quite rare and can cause breastfeeding difficulties for mothers.
Do Neonatal / Natal Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Sometimes, neonatal/natal teeth need to be removed, especially if:
- The teeth are loose and may fall out, which could be a choking risk.
- The teeth make breastfeeding difficult or cause pain.
- The teeth are growing in a way that could cause problems later.
If the teeth are healthy and not causing any issues, there is no need to remove them. We will just keep an eye on them.
Is It Safe to Use Anesthesia for My Baby?
Yes, using anesthesia is safe for babies during tooth removal. The dentist will use a special local anesthesia to make sure your baby is comfortable and safe during the procedure. We take great care to ensure your baby’s safety.
Risk of Aspiration During Breastfeeding
If the neonatal teeth are loose, there’s a small risk that the tooth may accidentally go down your baby’s throat while breastfeeding. If this happens, we may recommend removing the tooth to keep your baby safe.
Feeding Tips for Babies with Neonatal/ Natal Teeth
If your baby has neonatal teeth, feeding can be tricky. You can use a paladu, a small spoon-like tool, to help feed your baby without causing pain. You can also try different breastfeeding positions to keep both you and your baby comfortable.
Conclusion
Neonatal / Neonatal teeth can be a little surprising for new mothers, but with the right care, everything will be fine. If your baby has neonatal teeth, Dr. Pavani’s Dentistry is here to help. We’ll guide you through every step to keep your baby happy and healthy.
