Are You Born With Teeth In Your Gums
When babies are born, they usually don't have any teeth in their mouth. However, some parents may notice small white bumps on their baby's gums and wonder if they are teeth. This leads to the question - are you born with teeth in your gums?
What Are These White Bumps?
The small white bumps on your baby's gums are called natal teeth. These teeth are present at birth and are relatively rare, occurring in about 1 in every 2,000 to 3,000 births. Natal teeth can occur on their own or in conjunction with normal teeth that erupt later.
Why Do Some Babies Have Natal Teeth?
The exact cause of natal teeth is unknown, but it's believed to be related to genetics. Natal teeth are more common in girls and in babies born with certain medical conditions such as cleft palate.
Are Natal Teeth Normal?
Although natal teeth are relatively rare, they are considered normal. However, they can cause problems for both the baby and the mother. Natal teeth can be sharp and may cause discomfort or injury to the baby's tongue, lips, or the mother's breast during breastfeeding. They can also be a sign of an underlying medical condition, so it's important to consult a pediatric dentist if your baby has natal teeth.
What Should You Do If Your Baby Has Natal Teeth?
If your baby has natal teeth, you should consult a pediatric dentist. The dentist can evaluate your baby and determine if the teeth need to be removed. In some cases, the teeth may need to be removed if they are loose or if they are interfering with breastfeeding. In other cases, the teeth can be left in place and monitored.
When Do Babies Normally Get Their Teeth?
Most babies begin teething around 6 months of age. However, some babies may start teething as early as 3 months, while others may not get their first tooth until after their first birthday.
What Are The Signs Of Teething?
Teething can cause discomfort and irritability in babies. Some common signs of teething include:
- Excessive drooling
- Chewing on objects
- Red, swollen gums
- Fussiness or irritability
- Difficulty sleeping
How Can You Help A Teething Baby?
There are several ways to help a teething baby, including:
- Giving the baby something to chew on, such as a teething toy or a clean, damp washcloth
- Massaging the baby's gums with a clean finger
- Giving the baby a cold, wet washcloth to chew on
- Using over-the-counter teething gels or medication (consult a pediatrician before giving any medication)
Conclusion
In conclusion, while babies are not born with teeth in their gums, some may have natal teeth which are present at birth. Natal teeth are relatively rare but are considered normal. If your baby has natal teeth, it's important to consult a pediatric dentist. Most babies begin teething around 6 months of age, and there are several ways to help a teething baby.
