How many babies are born with natal teeth?

A baby born with teeth sounds like something from a horror movie, but it does happen! These kinds of teeth are called natal teeth, and they occur in about one in every 2,000 to 3,000 births, according to the National Institutes of Health. The teeth normally develop on the lower gum, are attached with soft tissue and don’t have strong roots. They’re different from neonatal teeth, which can grow in 30 days after birth. The doctor might choose to remove baby’s teeth while still in the hospital after delivery, because the teeth might be loose.

Leaving the teeth may cause a few minor problems. The baby might have trouble nursing, since these teeth will get in the way, or might cut the tongue. And nursing may be painful (ouch!). The gums and teeth need to be kept clean with a damp cloth daily. The baby should be brought to a dentist to monitor this condition. They’re just an extra round of teeth; and the baby will still get their childhood and adult teeth.