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Natal teeth, present at birth, occur in about 1 in 3,392 infants, primarily affecting lower incisors. This retrospective study explored potential causes and incidence of these early-emerging teeth.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Neonatal Health
- Human Genetics
Background:
- Natal teeth are teeth present at birth.
- Their occurrence is relatively rare, necessitating studies on incidence and etiology.
- Understanding associated conditions can aid in diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of natal teeth.
- To investigate potential associated conditions and etiological factors in a large infant cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective record review of 50,892 infant births.
- Data collection on natal teeth presence, tooth type, and associated maternal/infant conditions.
- Calculation of incidence rates.
Main Results:
- An incidence rate of 1 in 3,392 births was observed.
- Lower central incisors were most commonly affected.
- Associated conditions included various genetic syndromes, cleft palate, rickets, and maternal health issues like pernicious anemia and diabetes.
Conclusions:
- Natal teeth are infrequent, with lower central incisors being the most common presentation.
- A range of congenital anomalies and maternal factors may be associated with natal teeth.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the complex etiology.
Abstract:
I conducted a retrospective study based on record reviews of 50,892 infants born at the Foothills Provincial Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, from 1967 to 1984 to determine the incidence and possible causes of natal teeth. Fifteen infants were affected, for an incidence rate of one in 3,392 births. The affected teeth were the lower central incisors. The condition was more common in female infants. Two of the affected patients were twins. One patient each had Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, Pierre Robin syndrome, adrenogenital syndrome, cleft palate, and rickets. One mother each had pernicious anemia, vaginal infection, and diabetes mellitus.