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A baby was referred to a dentist by an obstetrician 18 days after birth in connection with the presence of 2 teeth in the mandibula which resembled incisors. It appeared to be a case of 2 (con)natal teeth with a high degree of mobility. Dental treatment in the form of 2 extractions was necessary.

Een baby werd 18 dagen na de geboorte via een verloskundige verwezen naar een tandarts in verband met de aanwezigheid van 2 op incisieven lijkende gebitselementen in de mandibula. Het bleek te gaan om 2 (con)natale gebitselementen met een verhoogde mobiliteit. Tandheelkundige behandeling in de vorm van 2 extracties was noodzakelijk.

As an introduction, this article describes the circumstances under which dental anatomy was taught to first year students at Utrecht University on November 26, 1945, as this led to the observation of a dens natalis. Relevant literature is discussed concerning the significance of the dens natalis for the child's future and for the family. Investigations into the frequency of the phenomenon are mentioned. Variations of the phenomenon are discussed in two cases. An overview of feeding and eating difficulties and measures to be taken concludes the article.

The 'problem' of the (neo)natal tooth is discussed in conjunction with a report of two cases and a review of the literature. The estimated incidence is between 1:700 and 1:3500 births. Girls are more often affected than boys. It usually concerns the two lower central deciduous incisors. The cause is most likely to be a superficial position of the tooth-germ, in which a hereditary component is a positive factor. The tooth is often deficient and very mobile, which may require treatment. In these cases extraction is the best therapy, if necessary after administration of vitamin K.