Natal and neonatal teeth in newborns and infants: a case-control study

This study focused on the clinical characteristics and management of natal and neonatal teeth. It included an interview (questions about birth, parental health, pregnancy) as well as a clinical examination (appearance of teeth according to Hebling's classification and their mobility according to Miller's classification as well the assessment of soft tissues). Of the 52 children, natal teeth were found in 38 (73.8%) and neonatal ones in 14 (26.92%). All those teeth were mandibular central incisors. The crowns were normal (46.5%) and shell-shaped with enamel hypoplasia (20.9%). In 14 (26.9%) patients, 18 (27.9%) teeth showed enamel hypoplasia. 29 (49.1%) natal teeth exhibited excessive mobility (class 3) and were extracted. In 5.7%, a Riga-Fede ulceration was observed. Statistically significant differences between the groups were related to the parent's age and health status, the mother's thyroid diseases or medications taken. Extended gestational period was related to an increased risk of natal tooth development (OR = 1.9975 (1.0221-2.7620); 95% CI: 1.0221-2.7620; p = 0.0093). The observation lasted until the emergence of permanent lower incisors. None of the teeth were extra/supernumerary. Both dentists and paediatricians should be aware of the clinical implications of such teeth. In the absence of indications for extraction, they should be retained. The importance of a comprehensive oral examination of a newborn should be emphasized.