When Teeth Fail to Erupt: Causes and What to Do

When teeth fail to erupt, it is important first to determine whether the missing teeth are primary teeth (commonly called “baby teeth”) or permanent teeth (sometimes called “adult teeth”). Age plays a key role in identifying which type of teeth are affected.

Understanding Baby Teeth

Baby teeth usually erupt between 4 and 6 months of age. By around age three, all 20 primary teeth are typically present in a toddler’s mouth. The first to appear are usually the lower front teeth (incisors), followed by the upper ones.

When baby teeth are missing, it may appear as delayed eruption or large spaces between existing teeth. Because baby teeth start forming while the child is still in the womb, missing primary teeth are quite rare.

Possible Causes of Missing Baby Teeth

• Complications during pregnancy

• Premature birth

• Genetic or developmental factors

If your child’s baby teeth are failing to appear on time, Dr. Kaufman can examine their mouth to determine whether teeth are developing correctly and identify any underlying issues.

When Permanent Teeth Don’t Erupt

Permanent teeth usually begin replacing baby teeth around the age of six. The first to be replaced are often the lower front teeth—the same ones that erupted first.

If permanent teeth fail to emerge, the most common reasons include:

• Obstructions in the eruption path, such as a retained primary tooth or an extra tooth (odontoma)

• Missing teeth (agenesis), where the tooth simply hasn’t developed

When an obstruction blocks the eruption path, the issue can often be corrected by removing the obstruction, allowing the permanent tooth to erupt naturally. If the teeth are missing entirely, further investigation is needed to understand the cause and to explore possible restorative or orthodontic treatment options.

Dr. Kaufman can assess whether the tooth is present beneath the gum line using diagnostic imaging and discuss suitable solutions—such as guided eruption, space maintenance, or tooth replacement options—to ensure a healthy smile and balanced bite.

Book a Consultation

If there are visible gaps in your child’s teeth or if you are concerned about delayed tooth eruption, please make an appointment with Dr. Kaufman for a detailed dental evaluation. Early assessment can help identify the cause and ensure proper dental development for your child.