You are likely 18 with baby teeth because you don't have permanent adult teeth developing beneath them to push them out. This common condition, where baby teeth remain past their expected time, is primarily caused by the absence of a permanent successor.
Understanding Retained Baby Teeth
Retained baby teeth, also known as persistent primary teeth, occur when a permanent tooth fails to develop or is blocked from erupting. The primary reason for this, according to the provided reference, is:
- Lack of a Permanent Successor: If an adult tooth doesn't exist or cannot emerge, the baby tooth remains in place.
This means that at 18, you're still using the baby tooth because the adult replacement hasn't formed to push it out.
Why Might a Permanent Tooth Be Missing?
Several factors can contribute to a missing permanent tooth:
- Genetic Factors: Some individuals are naturally prone to missing certain teeth.
- Developmental Issues: Problems during tooth development can prevent the formation of permanent teeth.
- Impact: Trauma to the jaw or area where a tooth should erupt can affect its formation.
- Other Underlying Health Conditions: Some health conditions can impact tooth development.
What Can You Do About Retained Baby Teeth?
While a baby tooth can serve its purpose for longer than average, it's essential to consult a dentist for evaluation. Depending on the situation, some possible solutions include:
- Monitoring: If the baby tooth is healthy and stable, your dentist may recommend monitoring it regularly.
- Extraction: If the baby tooth is causing issues, it can be extracted.
- Orthodontic Treatment: If there's an underlying cause, braces or other orthodontic treatment might be necessary to create space for an implant or a bridge.
- Dental Implants: After extracting the baby tooth, a dental implant can replace the missing permanent tooth.
- Dental Bridge: A dental bridge can fill the space left by the extracted baby tooth.
Key Takeaway
The reference clearly states that the absence of a permanent tooth to replace a baby tooth is the primary reason why you may still have baby teeth at 18. Consulting with your dentist is the first step to understanding and addressing this situation.
