Unusual Tooth Growth in Toddlers: What Parents Should Know

Growing unusual teeth?

Dear Doctor, my child is currently one year and four months old.
He started teething at four months, so I have been very attentive to his dental development.
However, since last month, I noticed white spots appearing in his oral cavity about 0.5 cm from the canine teeth on the upper jaw (not on the gums), and there are two spots that are quite symmetrical.
Initially, I thought it was just food residue, but it wouldn't come off.
To my surprise, I discovered yesterday that those two white spots have developed into teeth! I have asked many people, and none have experienced this situation.
I would like to know how to handle this condition.
Is extraction necessary? However, I see that he eats normally and it doesn't seem to affect him.
Could it be that those two teeth are still too short, and I am unsure if they will cause any issues in the future?

Winnie Cheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/24

Dr. Zhuang Suhui reply Dentistry

The teeth that emerge at one year and three months should be the typical primary teeth.
The white spots may be due to the teeth only slightly breaking through the gums.
It is advisable to observe for a while and not rush into treatment.

Reply Date: 2005/04/24

More Info

When it comes to unusual tooth growth in toddlers, it's important for parents to be informed and vigilant about their child's dental development. Your observation of white spots in your child's mouth, which later turned out to be emerging teeth, is indeed a unique situation, but it is not entirely uncommon.
Firstly, the appearance of white spots on the gums can sometimes indicate the presence of developing teeth beneath the surface. This is known as "tooth eruption," and it can happen in various ways. In some cases, teeth may appear in unusual locations or at unexpected times, which can be concerning for parents. However, if your child is eating normally and does not seem to be in pain, this is a positive sign.

The fact that these teeth are emerging in a location that is not typical for primary teeth (milk teeth) could be due to several factors. It might be a case of supernumerary teeth, which are extra teeth that can develop in addition to the normal set. These can sometimes cause crowding or misalignment of the other teeth, but if they are not causing any immediate issues, such as pain or difficulty eating, it may not be necessary to take immediate action.

Here are some steps you can take to monitor the situation:
1. Observation: Keep an eye on the growth of these teeth. If they continue to grow and your child remains comfortable, it may be a benign occurrence.
2. Dental Check-Up: Schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist. They can perform a thorough examination and may take X-rays to assess the positioning of the teeth and determine if they are likely to cause any future issues.
3. Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene for your child. Even if the teeth are not fully erupted, it's important to clean the gums and any emerging teeth gently with a soft cloth or a baby toothbrush to prevent plaque buildup and potential infections.

4. Monitoring for Symptoms: Watch for any signs of discomfort, such as difficulty eating, excessive drooling, or irritability. If your child starts showing these symptoms, it may indicate that the teeth are causing problems.

5. Consultation on Extraction: If the dentist determines that the extra teeth are likely to cause crowding or alignment issues, they may recommend extraction. This is typically a straightforward procedure in young children and can prevent future dental complications.

6. Education: Educate yourself about dental development in children. Understanding the typical timeline for tooth eruption can help you identify any deviations from the norm and address them promptly.

In conclusion, while the appearance of teeth in unusual locations can be concerning, it is often manageable with proper monitoring and professional guidance. Regular dental check-ups are essential in ensuring your child's dental health and addressing any concerns that may arise during their development. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a pediatric dentist who can provide personalized advice based on your child's specific situation.

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