Journal of Paediatric Dental Research and Practice

Bilateral Posterior Maxillary Natal Teeth with Associated Tongue Ulcers: A Rare Clinical Case

Adesuwa ABE — 2026-06-30

Background: Natal teeth are teeth present at birth, while neonatal teeth erupt within the first 30 days of life. This premature eruption has been associated with factors such as the superficial position of the tooth germ, infection or malnutrition, febrile illness, hypovitaminosis, and genetic predisposition. Natal/neonatal teeth are mostly found in the anterior mandibular region. The occurrence of posterior natal teeth, particularly in the maxillary molar region, is extremely rare.

Case presentation: We report a rare case of a 6-week-old male child who presented on account of bilateral posterior maxillary teeth noticed at birth, associated with ulceration of the dorsal surface of the tongue and discomfort during breastfeeding. Examination revealed two white, tooth-like structures, one on each posterior maxillary ridge. The teeth were quite loose. There were painful ulcerations on the right and left borders of the dorsum of the tongue. Ulcers were oval, measuring about 0.5cm by 0.3cm in dimension with a yellowish floor and raised borders.

An assessment of bilateral posterior maxillary natal teeth with associated tongue ulcerations was made.

Due to the degree of mobility of the natal teeth, with a possible risk of aspiration and the discomfort experienced by the mother when breastfeeding, the decision to extract the teeth was made. The teeth were extracted under topical anaesthesia, and there were no associated complications. At one-week postoperative review, the baby and mother were comfortable during breastfeeding, and there was good healing of the tongue lesions.

Conclusion: This case report presented a rare condition of bilateral posterior maxillary natal teeth in an infant, with associated tongue ulceration, discomfort during breastfeeding, and possible aspiration risk of the mobile teeth. These challenges are crucial in managing the condition, and patient follow-up is essential in preventing potential malocclusion.

Posterior maxillary teeth

Children and Caregivers' Preferences and Perceptions of Paediatric Dentists’ Attire In Northern Nigeria

Bilkisu Yusuf MUKHTAR — 2026-06-30

Background: The appearance of the dentist can influence children's anxiety, cooperation, and overall dental experience during oral health care. However, data from Northern Nigeria on this topic remain limited.

Objective: To evaluate the preferences of children and their caregivers regarding paediatric dentists' attire in Northern Nigeria.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Northern Nigeria between July and September 2025. The study enrolled 180 child-caregiver dyads using consecutive sampling. Children aged 5-16 years presenting for dental care and their accompanying caregivers participated. Data was collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires and standardized photographs of male and female dentists in five different attire types: traditional white coat, surgical scrubs, formal attire, casual professional attire, and paediatric-themed scrubs. Participants indicated their preferred dentist attire, preferred dentist gender, and reasons for preference. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests; statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: Both children (57.9%) and caregivers (50.6%) predominantly preferred the traditional white coat, citing professionalism, hygiene, and trust as key reasons. Children showed strong preferences for gender-concordant dentists. Most girls significantly preferred female dentists (75.0%), while most boys preferred male dentists (58.0%) (p < 0.001). No statistically significant difference was found between children’s and caregivers’ attire preferences (p = 0.066).

Conclusion: The traditional white coat was the most preferred attire among paediatric dental patients and their caregivers in Kano, Northern Nigeria, seen as a symbol of professionalism and expertise. Gender-matching significantly influenced children's preferences for dentists, reflecting northern Nigeria’s cultural and religious values.