Abstract

LUCAS-RINCON, Salvador Eduardo et al. Natal and neonatal teeth: a review of the literature. Pediatr. (Asunción) [online]. 2017, vol.44, n.1, pp.62-70. ISSN 1683-9803.  https://doi.org/10.18004/ped.2017.abril.62-70.

Teeth that erupt early are commonly referred to as natal or neonatal teeth. They can be classified according to the degree of maturity or appearance. Their prevalence varies from 1 in 44 to 1 in 30,000 births. Natal teeth are more frequent than neonatal teeth, and they often belong to the primary dentition; they occur bilaterally and principally among women. The etiology of these teeth is unknown, and the most acceptable theory is that the tooth germ is located superficially. Clinically, they resemble normal primary teeth, although they are often smaller and sometimes conical. They are generally characterized by a lack of root formation, changes in enamel and dentin, an immature appearance with hypoplastic enamel and sharp irregular and edges, and yellowish-brown/white opaque coloration. Radiographically there is no root. Histologically, most natal and neonatal teeth may follow a pattern of normal mineralization, but also have alterations in both enamel and dentin. Other findings include absence of the basal layer of Weil, Hertwig's sheath and cement; besides an increase in the number of blood vessels in dilated pulp. Treatment should be tailored to each tooth and each child. Available treatments include extraction or maintenance of the tooth in the arch. The most common complication of neonatal teeth or natal is traumatic ulceration of the ventral portion of the tongue due to friction, called Fede-Riga disease (ulcer). No reports of aspiration exist in the literature. The treatment of natal and neonatal teeth should be assessed very carefully to estimate their mobility, integrity, feeding baby, and the presence of some ulcers.

Keywords : Natal tooth; neonatal tooth; etiology prevalence; treatment..

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