HOSA Dental Terminology Practice 2025 - Free Dental Terminology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Neonatal teeth are defined as teeth that erupt in an infant’s mouth during the first month of life, which is why the chosen answer is accurate. This descriptive term refers specifically to the appearance of primary (deciduous) teeth, known as milk teeth, in newborns, indicating that the infant is experiencing teething earlier than the typical timeline, which would usually start around six months of age.

To elaborate further, erupting within the first month of life can be linked to genetic factors or certain health conditions that affect dental development. These early-comers can sometimes pose challenges or concerns for both the infant and caregivers, as they may be at risk of being displaced or causing feeding difficulties.

Understanding the typical eruption timelines for teeth is crucial in pediatric dentistry, as it allows dental professionals to assess growth and development appropriately. Neonatal teeth are a rare occurrence, but acknowledging them helps provide better care for infants who present with them.