Your child’s new tooth is growing behind their baby tooth. This makes it look like they have two rows of teeth, like a shark. Don’t worry. This happens to many kids, and it usually fixes itself.
When you see this, it means the new tooth is coming up in a different spot. The baby tooth is still there. The permanent teeth coming in behind baby teeth NHS are actually very common. Most of the time, nobody needs to do anything special. The baby tooth will fall out on its own, and everything will be fine.
What Are Shark Teeth, Really?
Think about your child’s mouth like a parking lot. There is only so much space. Sometimes the new tooth tries to come at a spot before the old tooth leaves. When this happens, you get two teeth where there should be one. The new tooth grows in the space right behind the baby tooth.
Kids go through a phase where they have both baby teeth and grown-up teeth at the same time. This is called the mixed dentition phase. During this time, your child’s mouth is changing a lot.
When you look in their mouth, you might see this shark-teeth situation. This is completely normal. Your child’s body is doing exactly what it’s supposed to do. It just looks a little funny while it’s happening.
If you are looking for children’s dentistry in SW Calgary, you will find that dentists see this situation all the time. It’s one of the most common things parents ask about.
Why Does This Happen to Some Kids?
There are several reasons why a tooth coming in behind a baby tooth occurs. Here are the main ones:
- The baby tooth won’t let go. Sometimes the root of the baby tooth doesn’t dissolve as it should. So the baby tooth stays stuck in place.
- The new tooth grows at an angle. It doesn’t push straight up as we expect. Instead, it comes up sideways or backward.
- Your family history matters. If you or other relatives had crowded teeth or teeth that came in funny, your child might too.
- The jaw is smaller. Adult teeth are bigger than baby teeth. If your child has a smaller jaw, there isn’t enough room for all the teeth to line up perfectly.
When Do Baby Teeth Fall Out?
Baby teeth usually start to get loose when kids are around five or six years old. But every child is different. Some kids lose teeth early. Others keep them longer. That’s totally normal.
Most baby teeth are gone by age thirteen. During these years, your child’s mouth is constantly changing. When an adult tooth is growing behind a baby tooth, the baby tooth usually falls out in a few weeks or months. Your child’s body knows what to do.
Should You Worry About This?
Most of the time, you don’t need to worry. A dental clinic in SW Calgary can check on your child and make sure everything is okay. You can gently help your child wiggle the baby tooth, but don’t pull it hard or force it.
You should see a dentist at a dental clinic near you if:
- The baby tooth doesn’t get loose after a few months
- Your child has pain or swelling
- The new tooth is growing at a very odd angle
- You just want peace of mind
A dentist can tell you if the baby tooth needs to be removed to help the permanent tooth come in the right way.
When to Call Your Dentist
Make an appointment if you see adult teeth growing behind baby teethand want a professional to look. It’s always okay to ask questions. A quick visit can give you answers and stop you from worrying.
If you see adult teeth growing behind baby teeth, it may indicate a problem. Make an appointment with a professional. It’s fine to ask questions anytime. Going to visit can answer your questions and stop your worries.
Call sooner if your child says their teeth hurt or if the area looks swollen or red.
Your Child’s Healthy Smile is Important at West Calgary Dental Group
Shark teeth look strange, but they are a normal part of growing up. Most of the time, the baby teeth fall out by themselves. The new teeth move into the right place on their own. All you need to do is watch and wait. Your child’s mouth will figure it out.
If you want to feel sure everything is okay, West Calgary Dental Group is ready to help. We know a lot about how children’s teeth grow and change. We can look at your child’s teeth and tell you what we see. We will answer your questions in a way that makes sense. Call us anytime you have concerns about your child’s teeth. We are here for your family.
FAQs
Will shark teeth affect my child’s bite?
Generally not. The bite generally corrects itself as the baby teeth erupt.
Is it possible for me to extract the baby tooth on my own?
It is better to let it fall out itself or get it checked by a dentist first.
Does this mean braces later?
Not necessarily. Shark teeth alone don’t mean your child will need braces.
How long until the baby tooth comes out?
Usually a few weeks to a few months after the permanent tooth appears.
