Delayed tooth emergence

• The presence of DTE, a commonly overlooked finding in primary care, signals abnormalities in tooth formation, eruption, or emergence. • DTE often occurs through benign acquired processes such as tooth loss due to dental caries or tooth-jaw size discrepancy. However, the detection of DTE is important because early identification can minimize the comorbidity associated with systemic disease, genetic syndromes, or odontogenic pathology. • Pediatricians can reduce the burden of care related to DTE through appropriate history taking and oral inspection during health supervision visits. • Children awaiting emergence of teeth for more than 12 months beyond normal chronologic ranges or those who experience localized alterations in the normal emergence order should be referred to a dentist for further evaluation.