Literature review and micro-computed tomography analysis of natal teeth: A pilot study

Aim - To outline the current literature surrounding natal teeth, and then, in a pilot study, to evaluate natal teeth using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) to determine their anatomical profile, and compare and contrast different analytical methods to assess natal teeth. Methods - Two extracted natal teeth (mandibular central incisors) and one exfoliated mandibular primary central incisor were subjected to micro-CT analysis. Results - Within natal teeth, there were no statistical differences in tooth mineral density (TMD) of both enamel and dentine (P > 0.05), whereas mandibular primary central incisors had a significantly higher TMD of both enamel and dentine in comparison to both natal tooth 1 and natal tooth 2 (P < 0.05). Mandibular primary central incisors had a greater thickness and volume of both enamel and dentine, but exhibited lower pulpal space volume. Conclusion - Micro-CT is an alternative and non-invasive method to anatomically assess natal teeth. According to the pilot study, natal teeth exhibited lower TMD, decreased enamel and dentine thickness, and smaller pulpal space volume in comparison to mandibular primary incisor teeth. This pilot study creates a foundation to establish the collection and analysis of natal teeth on a larger scale over time using micro-CT.