Toddler appears to have extra tooth
My daughter is 18 months old and has her first four teeth top and bottom, plus all four first molars. Our problem is that now, an extra tooth is pushing its way in between a central and lateral incisor in her upper jaw! This 'mystery' tooth is also turned at about a 45-degree angle to the teeth on either side. It is causing her a great deal of pain. Help! What should we do? Might we need to have it pulled?
Thanks,
Freya's mom
Dear Freya's mom,
It sounds as if your daughter might either have a supernumerary (extra) tooth or the primary canine is out of alignment. In either case, it would be good to take her to the dentist to have a radiograph taken to help diagnose and treat the problem. Depending on the findings, it is possible the tooth will need to be extracted, especially since it is causing her discomfort. Careful planning by you and your dentist will help avoid damage to the primary or developing permanent teeth. Also, follow up radiographs should be taken as your daughter gets older to rule out any supernumerary teeth in her permanent dentition.
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