Abnormal Baby Teeth Problems
When your new baby gets his first tooth in, it’s an exciting time for parents. What happens, though, when there’s something wrong with the brand new teeth? Or what about if your baby starts losing his teeth prematurely? There are a few different types of abnormal baby teeth problems to watch out for. If you suspect there’s a problem with your child, visit a dentist and look at a dental chart together.
Common Problems With Baby Teeth
Teeth Gemination and Fusion
Teeth gemination and fusion typically occur on the front teeth, either on the top or bottom. These abnormal baby teeth problems can be difficult to tell apart. During gemination, a tooth that’s developing splits to form two completely separate teeth. During fusion, two separate, developing teeth merge into one tooth.
Baby Teeth That Don’t Come In
Most babies start getting their first set of teeth at about six months old. The set of baby teeth waits under the gums until the child reaches this age. Baby teeth stop coming in around the age of three. However, some babies never get their first set of teeth in.
A lack of physical development could result in a child not getting their baby teeth. For example, children who have Down Syndrome may never get their first set of teeth. Hormonal problems can also contribute to a child not getting their baby teeth in. A child with hypothyroidism or hypoparathyroidism doesn’t have enough hormones secreted by the thyroid or parathyroid glands. These hormones are responsible for a variety of body processes, including the development of teeth.
Premature Loss of Baby Teeth
Some children with abnormal baby teeth will start to lose their first set of teeth early. Most kids lose their baby teeth between the ages of five and seven.
Periodontal disease and bone loss is rare in children, but it’s a serious problem that can result in the premature loss of baby teeth. Periodontal disease can occur when certain bacteria reduce the child’s immune system defense. Another cause of abnormal baby teeth could be Papillon-Lefevre syndrome. Children with this syndrome have a deficit of neutrophil in their body. Babies will lose their first set of teeth shortly after they come in. While the child’s permanent set of teeth will eventually grow in, kids with Papillon-Lefevre syndrome will lose their permanent set of teeth as well.
Children who experience premature tooth loss should see a doctor immediately. Diagnosing a problem early can help with treatment. To be sure though, if you notice any signs of the above-mentioned abnormal baby teeth problems, you should not think twice of visiting a dentist.