Nonsyndromic extremely premature eruption of teeth in preterm neonates – a report of three cases and a review of the literature

Abstract

Abstract Objective Preterm birth is connected to a delay in the development and eruption of primary teeth. The aim of the study is to present clinical findings, complications and management of prematurely erupted primary teeth. Subjects Three premature neonates with prematurely erupted teeth were examined during a 3-year period. The gender, gestational age, birthweight, mode of delivery and general health status were recorded. The literature search was conducted using several databases. Results The intraoral examination of three premature neonates revealed the presence of partially erupted lower central incisors. All teeth erupted between 4 and 6 weeks after preterm birth and were extracted due to their hypermobility. Two retrospective studies and 10 case reports concerning preterm infants with natal or neonatal teeth were found. Conclusion Careful examination of preterm infants with natal or neonatal teeth is very important not only for a treatment decision but also for the possible presence of syndromic conditions.