Retained Baby Teeth at Age 15: Causes and What to Do

Is It Normal?

Most children lose all primary (baby) teeth by age 12–13. Retention of one or more baby teeth at 15 is uncommon but not rare and warrants dental evaluation.

Common Causes

• Genetics: Family history of delayed eruption.
• Missing permanent successor: Congenital absence (agenesis) of the adult tooth means no pressure to resorb the primary root.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate insufficiency.
• Medical conditions: Hypothyroidism, cleidocranial dysplasia, or local pathology (cysts, supernumerary teeth).

Recommended Steps

1. Panoramic or periapical X-rays to confirm presence/position of permanent teeth.
2. Orthodontic consultation if malalignment or space issues exist.
3. Extraction of retained primary teeth if they impede eruption or cause crowding.
4. Monitoring if permanent teeth are simply delayed but developing normally.