Is It Normal for Baby Teeth to Last Until Adulthood?

My teeth feel strange?

Hello Dr.
Lin,
I have a question.
I had an X-ray taken at the dental clinic, and one of my primary teeth has not fallen out yet.
The dentist said it cannot be extracted, and my permanent tooth has already erupted below it.
It has been 24 years; is this unusual? How should I take care of my dental health in this situation? Thank you, and I look forward to your reply.

Yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/12/05

Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry

Dear Meiling,
Humans have two sets of teeth throughout their lifetime: a.
primary teeth (baby teeth) and b.
permanent teeth (adult teeth).
Primary teeth are gradually replaced by permanent teeth; however, some individuals may never develop their permanent teeth and retain their primary teeth for life.
If the primary teeth are still functioning well, it may be worth considering keeping them, as once a tooth is extracted, it will not grow back.
Furthermore, without an X-ray, we cannot determine whether you have underlying permanent teeth that have not erupted or if they are absent.
If the latter is the case, it is even more crucial to take care of your primary teeth.
General oral hygiene includes brushing, using dental floss, and other oral care tools, which require skill and practice.
We welcome you to visit our clinic, and we will be dedicated to serving you.
Thank you!
(06) 6351131 * 2208

Reply Date: 2003/12/05

More Info

It's not uncommon for baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, to remain in place longer than expected. Typically, primary teeth begin to fall out around the age of six, making way for permanent teeth. However, there are instances where a baby tooth may remain in the mouth even when the permanent tooth has erupted. This situation can arise for several reasons, including the position of the permanent tooth, the health of the surrounding gums, and the overall dental development of the child.

In your case, it sounds like you have a retained primary tooth that has not fallen out even after 24 years. This can occur when the permanent tooth is positioned in a way that does not exert enough pressure on the root of the baby tooth to trigger its loss. Sometimes, the roots of the baby teeth can remain intact, preventing them from loosening and falling out naturally.
While it may seem unusual, it’s important to monitor the situation closely. Here are some points to consider regarding the care and health of your retained baby tooth:
1. Regular Dental Check-ups: Continue to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups. They can monitor the health of both the retained baby tooth and the surrounding permanent teeth. X-rays can help determine the condition of the roots and the position of the permanent teeth.

2. Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene practices. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Pay special attention to the area around the retained tooth, as it may be more prone to cavities and gum disease.

3. Watch for Symptoms: Be vigilant for any signs of discomfort, swelling, or changes in color around the retained tooth. If you experience any pain or if the tooth becomes loose, seek dental advice promptly.

4. Consideration for Extraction: If the retained baby tooth causes problems, such as misalignment of other teeth or persistent dental issues, your dentist may recommend extraction. This is typically considered if the tooth is not functioning properly or if it poses a risk to your oral health.

5. Potential Impact on Permanent Teeth: Sometimes, retained baby teeth can affect the alignment and health of adjacent permanent teeth. If the baby tooth is not causing any issues, it may be left in place, but your dentist will keep an eye on its impact on your overall dental structure.

6. Understanding the Cause: If you have concerns about why the tooth has not fallen out, your dentist can help investigate further. There may be underlying factors such as genetic predispositions, developmental anomalies, or other dental issues that could explain the situation.

In summary, while it is not typical for baby teeth to last into adulthood, it is not unheard of. As long as the retained tooth is healthy and not causing any problems, it can remain in place. However, regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure that your overall dental health remains intact. If you have any concerns or if the situation changes, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist for personalized advice and treatment options.

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