Also known as: late tooth eruption, tooth coming in late, slow tooth eruption, delayed adult tooth, delayed baby tooth, tooth not coming in

Delayed tooth eruption means a baby tooth or adult tooth is taking longer than expected to come in. Timing can vary from child to child, and some kids simply erupt teeth later than others. In other cases, a tooth may seem “stuck,” especially if the matching tooth on the other side has already come in or a baby tooth remains in place longer than expected.

This symptom can sometimes be related to crowding, lack of space, a retained baby tooth, or a tooth that is developing or erupting in an unusual position. While some delays are harmless and only need monitoring, others can affect spacing, bite development, or the path of nearby teeth. Early evaluation helps determine whether the delay is part of normal development or something that needs treatment planning.

Possible Causes of Delayed Tooth Eruption

Delayed tooth eruption is commonly associated with:

  • Normal variation in timing – Some children naturally get their baby teeth or adult teeth later than average, and a delayed eruption may still fall within a healthy range of development.

  • Retained baby teeth – If a baby tooth stays in place longer than expected, it can block the permanent tooth underneath and slow or change the way it erupts.

  • Crowding or lack of space – When there is not enough room in the dental arch, a tooth may erupt more slowly, come in out of position, or remain trapped below the gums.

  • Impacted or misdirected eruption path – A tooth that is angled incorrectly or blocked by nearby teeth may not come in on time and can stay partially or fully unerupted.

  • Developmental differences or a missing tooth – In some cases, the tooth may be forming slowly, developing abnormally, or not present at all, which can make eruption appear delayed.

Treatments for Delayed Tooth Eruption

Depending on the cause of delayed tooth eruption, treatment may include:

  • Exams & Cleanings – Regular exams help monitor eruption timing, check whether a baby tooth is blocking the path, and determine whether your child’s development is following a normal pattern or needs closer attention.
  • Well-Baby Exams – For infants and toddlers with delayed first teeth or early eruption concerns, well-baby exams can help track dental development and give parents clear guidance on what timing is expected.
  • Braces – If delayed eruption is related to crowding or limited space, braces may help create room and guide teeth into healthier alignment as they come in.

When to See a Dentist

Consider scheduling an appointment if your child:

  • Has a tooth that is much later than expected to come in
  • Already has the matching tooth on the other side, but this one still has not erupted
  • Has swelling, pain, or a bump in the gums where a tooth should be coming in
  • Still has a baby tooth that is not loosening, or has obvious crowding around the area

Related Symptoms

Concerned About Delayed Tooth Eruption?

Delayed tooth eruption is often a sign that something needs attention. We’d love to evaluate your child’s symptoms and make their visit comfortable, positive, and stress-free. Schedule an appointment today and get the answers you need.