As your child’s smile grows and changes, you might notice something unusual happening – a second row of teeth appearing behind their baby teeth. This phenomenon, often referred to as a child’s shark teeth, can be alarming for parents. The name comes from its resemblance to the rows of teeth seen in actual sharks, but rest assured, it’s a common part of a child’s oral development.
In this post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about shark teeth in children, why they occur, and how to manage them. From when baby teeth loosen to the emergence of permanent teeth, this guide will provide the insights you need to navigate this transitional phase smoothly.
What Are Shark Teeth?
Usually, shark teeth occur in the lower front teeth (also known as the lower incisors), but it can also happen with the upper front teeth or even in the upper back molars. These extra teeth don’t mean there’s anything wrong with your child’s smile; in fact, it’s a sign that their permanent teeth are on the way.
Why Do Shark Teeth Happen?
There are a few reasons why a child might develop shark teeth. The most common is that the baby tooth’s root hasn’t dissolved fully, causing the tooth to be a stubborn baby tooth that holds its place. Normally, the pressure from a growing permanent tooth causes the baby tooth root to disintegrate, leading to a loose baby tooth that eventually falls out. But when the permanent tooth doesn’t follow this typical pattern, it may erupt behind the baby tooth.
Another reason could be a lack of space in the mouth. If there’s not enough space for the permanent tooth to grow into its proper position, the new tooth may come in behind the baby teeth.
When Do Shark Teeth Occur?
Shark teeth most commonly appear when a child’s permanent teeth begin to emerge, which usually happens between the ages of 5 and 7. This phase often coincides with loose baby teeth and the eventual falling out of primary teeth. However, in some cases, the permanent tooth reaches the surface before the baby tooth loosens, creating that double row.
It can be distressing when your child’s smile suddenly looks very different, but there’s no need to panic. Shark teeth are a regular part of oral development in kids and usually resolve themselves.
How to Manage Shark Teeth
While shark teeth often resolve on their own, there are steps you can take to ensure your child’s dental health remains on track during this transition period.
Encourage Wiggling: If your child has a loose baby tooth that isn’t falling out, encourage them to gently wiggle the tooth. This helps the baby tooth loosen further and allows the permanent tooth to be properly positioned.
Monitor for Discomfort: Sometimes, your child might experience discomfort from having two rows of teeth. If this happens, consult your dentist. They may recommend tooth extraction if the baby’s tooth is particularly stubborn.
Promote Good Oral Hygiene: During this phase, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Help your child brush their teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to help prevent tooth decay. This is especially important as the permanent teeth emerge.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular dental check-ups are crucial during this time. Your dentist can monitor the growth of your child’s permanent teeth and ensure they’re developing correctly. In certain cases, orthodontic treatment may be required if the teeth appear misaligned or if there is significant crowding.
Provide a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet with limited sugary foods helps prevent cavities and supports strong, healthy teeth. This is particularly important when your child’s permanent teeth begin to grow.
Will Shark Teeth Require Intervention?
In rare cases, a baby tooth might need to be extracted to make room for the permanent tooth. Tooth extraction is a simple protocol that can help prevent misaligned teeth or a double row of teeth.
Can Shark Teeth Be Prevented?
Since shark teeth are a natural part of a child’s dental development, there isn’t much you can do to prevent them entirely. However, regularly monitoring your child’s teeth and maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, can help guarantee that your child’s teeth develop properly.
Also, encouraging healthy habits like avoiding sugary foods and ensuring your child brushes with fluoride toothpaste can prevent other dental issues, such as tooth decay, from complicating the growth of permanent teeth.
Knowing When It’s Time to Visit the Dentist
While a shark tooth usually isn’t a cause for concern, there are situations where you may need to schedule a dental appointment. If your child experiences significant discomfort or if the baby teeth don’t loosen after the permanent teeth begin to erupt, it’s time to see a dentist. They can evaluate whether tooth extraction or orthodontic treatment is necessary to ensure your child’s teeth align correctly.
Additionally, if you notice that your child’s permanent teeth are not erupting properly or if the rows of teeth seem particularly misaligned, your dentist might recommend further action to ensure your child’s smile develops as it should.
Managing the Psychological Effect of Shark Teeth on Children
The appearance of shark teeth in kids can sometimes have a psychological impact, as your child might feel self-conscious about having two rows of teeth or experiencing changes in their smile. This transition period, where baby teeth and permanent teeth coexist, may cause some anxiety or discomfort for your child. It’s important to address both their dental health and emotional well-being during this time.
First, reassure your child that shark teeth are a normal part of oral development, and they will eventually fall out, making way for their adult teeth. Emphasise that the changes happening to their teeth, like a loose baby tooth or the growth of their permanent teeth, are all part of growing up. Let them know that shark teeth resolve naturally for most children, and their smile will return to normal as their adult teeth take their proper place.
By focusing on good oral hygiene practices and offering emotional support, you can help manage the psychological effects that shark teeth may have on your child. With a little patience and encouragement, shark teeth resolve naturally, leading to a confident smile as their permanent teeth emerge.
Wrapping It All Up: What You Should Keep in Mind
Shark teeth in kids might sound alarming, but they are a normal part of growing up. While most cases resolve on their own, keeping an eye on your child’s dental health and consulting with a dentist if needed will help prevent any long-term issues. With patience and proper care, your child’s permanent teeth will emerge, and their smile will continue to shine brightly.
If you have concerns about your child’s dental health or need professional advice, contact Available Dental Care at (02) 4601 3828 to schedule an appointment with our caring dentists. We’re committed to ensuring your child’s smile stays healthy and bright!
References:
Almonaitiene, R., Balciuniene, I., & Tutkuviene, J. (2010). Eruption and shedding of primary teeth and factors influencing the eruption of permanent teeth. ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/298072155_Eruption_and_shedding_of_primary_teeth_and_factors_influencing_the_eruption_of_permanent_teeth
American Association of Orthodontists. (n.d.). Orthodontics for children. AAOinfo. https://aaoinfo.org/orthodontics-for-children/
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Loose tooth: Causes and what to do. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/loose-tooth
