CLAIM:
Newborn babies can sometimes be born with teeth, and this is generally normal though rare. These “natal teeth” do not always require removal unless they cause problems such as feeding difficulties, mobility, or injury.
FACT:
True. Newborns can rarely be born with teeth (natal teeth), and this is generally a normal condition. Most cases do not require treatment and resolve on their own, but experts advise medical evaluation if the teeth are loose, cause feeding problems, or lead to injury or infection.
In a viral reel posted by Dr Imran Patel, a paediatrician with over 1 crore followers on Instagram, the doctor addresses a concern that often alarms new parents: whether it is normal for newborn babies to have teeth at birth.
In the reel, he explains that while it may seem unusual, it is not unheard of. Demonstrating with an example, he says, “Do babies have teeth? Yes, let me show you. This is a 3-month-old baby. Her parents were concerned — ‘Sir, this baby is going to bring something extra… what? Teeth?’”
He goes on to reassure viewers that the condition, known as natal teeth, is rare but normal, occurring in about “1 in every 2,000–3,000 babies.” Addressing common fears and myths, he adds, “Some people say this is a good thing, some say it’s inauspicious. But this is normal. There is nothing to worry about.”
At the same time, he outlines situations where medical attention may be needed. “If the teeth are moving, you should remove them. If it’s difficult to feed or if there is an ulcer in the tongue, then removal may be required. Otherwise, let it be,” he advises.
The reel has managed to receive significant traction online, garnering over 8.52 lakh views, 22,300 likes, and more than 2,400 shares, sparking conversations among parents about whether teeth at birth are a cause for concern.
Is it normal for newborns to have teeth at birth?
Studies indicate that natal teeth, though rare, are usually not a cause for concern. Management depends on factors such as mobility, feeding difficulties, or risk of injury, with experts consistently advising that stable teeth can often be left untreated under medical supervision.
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A 2006 study highlights that “the presence of teeth at birth or within a month post-delivery is a rare condition,” noting that a few babies may be born with one or two teeth already visible in the gums. The study emphasises that these teeth are often part of the normal primary dentition and may not require removal if they are stable. As the authors note, “teeth which have good support do not need to be removed, since…these elements will probably compound the deciduous dentition.” However, in cases where the teeth are loose, extraction may be necessary due to risks such as aspiration or feeding difficulties.
The study further explains that the exact cause is not always clear, though one commonly cited reason is the “superior placement of the tooth germ.” It also underscores the importance of careful evaluation, stating that “a complete oral examination is recommended in newborns” to rule out other oral conditions and ensure appropriate management.
Building on this, a 2023 study provides further clarity on definitions and risk factors. The study highlights that while the condition is rare, certain factors, such as low birth weight or preterm birth, may be associated with a higher occurrence, although findings remain inconsistent across studies.
Importantly, it reinforces that treatment depends on clinical presentation. “If the degree of mobility of natal teeth exceeds 2 mm, they need to be extracted to avoid the risk of aspiration,” the study states. At the same time, it advises caution, noting that factors such as the baby’s overall health and vitamin K status should be considered before any procedure. The researchers also stress the importance of follow-up, adding that “periodic follow-up with a paediatric dentist is essential to monitor the child’s oral health.”
More recent evidence from a 2025 study published in Nature further supports a conservative approach. Analysing 52 children, the study found that natal teeth were more common than neonatal teeth and were typically located in the lower central incisors. While nearly half of the cases showed excessive mobility and required extraction, the authors emphasised that not all cases need intervention. As they conclude, “in the absence of indications for extraction, they should be retained,” highlighting the need for careful clinical assessment rather than routine removal.
What experts say?
Prof. Dr Sanjeev Bagai, Padma Shri awardee and Senior Consultant Paediatrician & Nephrologist, explained that babies born with teeth have a recognised condition known as natal teeth, sometimes also referred to as congenital teeth. He noted that the condition is uncommon, occurring in roughly “1 in 3,000 newborns,” and in rare cases may be associated with underlying conditions.
He added that “very rarely, it can be associated with certain syndromes, especially cleft palate or midline defects,” which are linked to developmental issues during embryogenesis. However, in most cases, these teeth are not a cause for concern.
According to him, natal teeth are often temporary and not firmly developed. “By and large, they are loose, they are temporary, and they fall out on their own,” he said. In some instances, if the tooth is extremely loose, it may be removed easily. “Sometimes it is so loose that just with a simple gauze piece they can be removed,” he explained, adding that such removal usually does not lead to excessive bleeding.
At the same time, Dr Bagai highlighted that intervention is not always required. “If the teeth are very firm or it is causing problems in feeding, then very rarely these kinds of teeth need to be removed,” he said. He also pointed out that while most cases are harmless, there can occasionally be minor complications such as “ulceration of the oral cavity” or a mild dental infection.
He also emphasised that “decisions regarding treatment should be made on a case-by-case basis.”
Similarly, Dr Jagdish Kathwate, Consultant Neonatologist & Paediatrician at Motherhood Hospital, Pune, reassured that natal teeth are usually not a cause for panic. He noted that while most cases are harmless, they can sometimes lead to minor issues.
He emphasised the need for medical evaluation, advising that “an expert should check them to decide if they need to be removed or can be safely left as they are.” In particular, he highlighted that “loose teeth can be removed to prevent choking.”
Dr Kathwate also pointed out that if breastfeeding becomes painful, supportive measures can help. “If feeding becomes painful for the mother, gentle positioning or nipple shields can be used,” he suggested.
This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS
