Natal and Neonatal Teeth

Abstract

Tooth eruption follows a chronology corresponding to the date when the tooth erupts into the oral cavity. This date has been established in the literature and is subject to small variations depending on hereditary, endocrine and environmental features. Any disturbance during the development of the teeth -systemic or local- can affect not only the morphology, structure of dental hard tissues or number of teeth but also the time of eruption. The presence of a tooth in the mouth at birth or during the first month of life has been studied and denominated as natal and neonatal teeth. The aim of this paper is to review current information on this topic and to give treatment alternatives if it is necessary.