If you spot a second row of teeth in your child’s mouth, you might feel concerned or even alarmed. This phenomenon, known as “shark teeth,” is usually not something to worry about! In this blog post, you will learn from a pediatric dentist why shark teeth occur and what you can do as a parent to navigate this stage of your child’s dental development.
Why Shark Teeth Show Up
Shark teeth appear when a permanent tooth erupts before the baby tooth falls out. In many cases, the new tooth comes in behind the baby tooth. This usually occurs in the lower dental arch toward the front of the mouth, though it can also happen in the upper front teeth. This pattern may occur between the ages of 6 and 8, when children start the shift from baby teeth to permanent teeth.
Why does this happen? As permanent teeth develop, they usually dissolve the roots of the baby teeth and push them out. Sometimes, that process moves rather slowly. When that occurs, the permanent tooth may erupt before the baby tooth becomes loose. Limited space in the dental arch can also play a role in the development of shark teeth.
In many children, this stage does not point to a serious problem. It simply means the timing of tooth replacement does not follow a perfect sequence. Even so, it helps to watch the area closely so you can seek professional care for your child if necessary.
What Parents Should Do Next
If you notice shark teeth in your child’s mouth, start with calm observation. Check whether the baby tooth feels loose. If it does, encourage your child to wiggle it with a clean finger or with their tongue. In many cases, that small effort helps the baby tooth come out so the permanent tooth can shift forward into its proper place.
It is also important to encourage good brushing and flossing because two rows of teeth can create extra spots where food and plaque collect.
You should call a pediatric dentist if the baby tooth stays solidly in place for several weeks, your child reports pain, or the new tooth looks far out of position. A dentist can examine the area and decide if the baby tooth needs removal. That visit can also reveal whether crowding, extra teeth, or a narrow dental arch affects the way the permanent teeth come in. In some cases, orthodontic care is necessary to promote proper oral development and prevent future complications.
Shark teeth often look worse than they are! Keep a close eye on your child’s smile and call their dentist if you have any concerns.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Adrienne Archidiacono-Jeanis is proud to serve the Aledo, TX, community as a highly skilled pediatric dentist. She enjoys working with kids and their parents as they navigate exciting milestones in oral development. To learn more about her or to request an appointment with our team, contact our office at 817-406-2025.