Prepare for the HOSA Dental Terminology Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each supplemented with hints and explanations. Get equipped for your test with confidence!

Practice this question and more.


Neonatal teeth refer to teeth that erupt during which specific time frame?

  1. First week of life

  2. First month of life

  3. First three months of life

  4. During early adulthood

The correct answer is: First month of life

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.