Natal & Neonatal Teeth in Infants
Natal teeth are present at birth, while neonatal teeth erupt within the first 30 days.
Problems to watch for:
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Difficulty in breastfeeding due to pain or poor latch
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Ulcers under the tongue (Riga-Fede disease)
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Risk of tooth mobility and aspiration
Early evaluation by a pediatric dentist is essential to decide whether monitoring or removal is needed.
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Oral Habits in Infants
Oral habits are common in infancy and early childhood. While many are normal developmental behaviors, it's important to monitor them to ensure they don't negatively impact your child's oral development.
Common infant oral habits include:
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Thumb or finger sucking
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Pacifier dependence
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Tongue thrusting
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Mouth breathing
If these habits continue beyond infancy, they may lead to bite problems, speech issues, and facial growth imbalance.
Lactation & Breastfeeding Issues
Breastfeeding plays a vital role in jaw development and oral muscle coordination.
Common lactation-related concerns include:
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Poor latch or shallow latch
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Nipple pain for the mother
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Baby tiring quickly during feeds
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Inadequate weight gain
Conditions like tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) or lip-tie can restrict tongue movement and interfere with effective feeding.
Signs Parents Should Not Ignore
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Clicking sounds during feeding
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Excessive drooling or milk leakage
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Baby prefers bottle over breast
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Frequent feeding but poor satisfaction
Early assessment by a pediatric dental or lactation specialist can significantly improve feeding outcomes.
Why Early Dental & Feeding Evaluation Matters
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Supports healthy jaw and facial growth
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Prevents future orthodontic and speech problems
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Improves breastfeeding success and infant nutrition
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Ensures comfort for both baby and mother
When to Consult a Pediatric Dentist
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If teeth are present at birth or within the first month
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If breastfeeding is painful or ineffective
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If oral habits seem excessive or persistent
Early intervention = healthier smiles and better feeding experiences.
Why Choose Tooth Fairy Dental
Early identification of infant oral and feeding issues—such as natal or neonatal teeth, oral habits, and breastfeeding difficulties—plays a crucial role in your child’s long-term oral health and development. Timely evaluation helps prevent future dental, speech, and jaw growth problems while ensuring comfortable and effective feeding for both baby and mother.
At Tooth Fairy, we specialize in early infant oral assessments and feeding-related dental concerns. Book a Tooth Fairy pediatric dental appointment today with the best kids dental clinic in Hyderabad to give your child the healthiest start and expert, compassionate care from day one.