Saturday, February, 11, 2012

Tooth formation - delayed or absent

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Delayed or absent tooth formation; Teeth - delayed or absent formation


Home Care


Call your health care provider if

If your child has not developed any teeth by the time the child is 9 months old, consult your health care provider.


What to expect at your health care provider's office

The health care provider will perform a physical examination, including a detailed examination of the mouth and gums, and ask questions such as:

  • In what order did the teeth emerge?
  • At what age did other family members develop teeth?
  • Are there any other family members that have teeth that never "came in"?
  • What other symptoms are also present?

An infant with delayed or absent tooth formation may have other symptoms and signs that, when taken together, define a specific syndrome or condition.

Diagnostic tests are usually not necessary unless a disorder is suspected as the cause. Most often, delayed tooth formation is a normal finding. Occasionally, dental x-rays will be needed.


Review Date: 02/22/2010
Reviewed By: Jack D. Rosenberg, DDS, Advanced Dental Care, Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, M.D., MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)