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Delayed Tooth Eruption: When to Worry About

Delayed Tooth Eruption

Delayed Tooth Eruption can worry many parents, especially when other kids’ teeth seem to come in faster. Sometimes it’s normal, but in some cases, it needs a dentist’s check to avoid future problems. If you’re concerned about Delayed Tooth Eruption, call us today at (512) 863-7561 to book an appointment.

Although the timing is not very important, you need to check with a pediatric dentist if your baby has not started teething by the age of 18 months. Usually, delayed teething is often seen in babies, but it's better to have an expert opinion.

Causes of Delayed Tooth Eruption



There are several factors that affect tooth eruption in babies, some of them are:

  • ● Genetic: Tooth eruption is sometimes affected by genes; people have delayed tooth eruption running in their families. Ask your family when you or your partner had your first tooth erupt. However, other genetic conditions like Down syndrome, amelogenesis imperfecta, and regional odontodysplasia can also be reasons for delayed tooth eruption.

  • ● Preterm birth or low birth weight: Delayed tooth eruption can be one of the developmental delays that preterm babies usually experience. If a baby was born 3 months earlier, then even if he is 6 months old, his developmental age will still be close to 3 months old. (At around 3-4 gestational months, the baby's teeth are formed inside the womb; however, they remain inside the gums and erupt once the baby is born.)

  • ● Vitamin Deficiencies: a delay in tooth eruption can also be due to nutritional or vitamin deficiencies. Deficiency of vitamin D can lead to rickets, which can also be a reason for delayed tooth eruption.

Risks of Delayed tooth Eruption



Some parents worry when their baby hasn’t erupted their teeth by 12 months, whereas for others, a delay in tooth eruption is seen as a sign of intelligence.

The truth is that delayed tooth eruption is not linked to intelligence, nor does it cause any serious risk to a baby’s health. However, several studies suggest that babies with delayed tooth eruption are more prone to tooth decay.

For good oral health, it is very important to maintain proper oral hygiene and have regular dental checkups. However, children with delayed tooth development may require dental treatment or additional care in the future.

However, neither of these risks should be concerning because the majority of children need dental care even before they reach adulthood. But a good oral hygiene practice and routine dental visits are always recommended.

In simple words, a delayed tooth eruption does not have a great impact on a child's permanent teeth and also does not affect the overall health of the child.

Treatment Options for Delayed Tooth Eruption



If the cause is malnutrition, only then should delayed teething get urgent treatment. Otherwise, it is only recommended to observe. But a treatment is required for a dental problem that might occur in the future due to a delay in tooth eruption. Children who show delayed tooth development may experience difficulty in eating foods that need to be bitten. In such a case you need a nutritionist who can recommend a well-balanced diet for your child.

When do you need a dentist for your baby?



As per the American Dental Association, a child may need to get their first dental checkup at the age of one year or when they get their first tooth, whichever comes earlier. However, if your baby’s teeth do not erupt by 18 months, it is highly recommended that you schedule an appointment, as most parents usually postpone their baby’s first dental visit. To schedule an appointment in Georgetown, TX, (512) 863-7561 At dentist in georgetown tx , we are here to help your child begin their journey toward a lifetime of healthy teeth.

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