When permanent teeth begin to emerge while the primary (baby) teeth are still in place, resulting in a double row of teeth, this condition is often referred to as "shark teeth."
This common occurrence happens during the transition phase from primary to permanent teeth. According to one source, "shark teeth... occurs when the baby teeth don't fall out on schedule and the permanent teeth come in behind them. This results in a double row of teeth that's often concerning for both kids and parents."
Understanding Shark Teeth
The term "shark teeth" is used because sharks naturally have multiple rows of teeth. While a fascinating characteristic for marine life, it can be a surprising development in children's mouths.
Key Characteristics:
- Appearance: Permanent teeth visible directly behind the existing baby teeth.
- Location: Most often seen in the lower front teeth (incisors), but can also happen with upper teeth or molars.
- Cause: The roots of the baby teeth haven't fully dissolved (resorbed), preventing them from loosening and falling out naturally as the permanent teeth erupt.
Why Does This Happen?
Normally, as permanent teeth grow beneath the gums, they push against the roots of the baby teeth. This pressure causes the baby tooth roots to slowly dissolve, leading the baby tooth to become loose and eventually fall out, making space for the permanent tooth.
However, sometimes the permanent tooth doesn't grow directly under the baby tooth. It might erupt slightly behind it. If the baby tooth's root resorption process isn't completed quickly enough, the permanent tooth emerges while the baby tooth is still firmly in place, leading to the "shark teeth" formation.
What to Do About Shark Teeth
While seeing a double row of teeth can be alarming, it's a relatively common complication during tooth eruption.
Steps to Consider:
- Wait and Observe: Often, the baby tooth will eventually loosen and fall out on its own, especially if it's already a bit wobbly. The tongue pushing against the baby tooth can help encourage it to come out.
- Encourage Wiggling: If the baby tooth is loose, encourage the child to gently wiggle it.
- Consult a Dentist: If the baby tooth remains firm, causes pain, or the permanent tooth is significantly erupted, it's best to visit a pediatric dentist. They can:
- Assess the situation.
- Determine if the baby tooth needs assistance in falling out.
- Potentially extract the stubborn baby tooth to allow the permanent tooth to move into its correct position.
Potential Outcomes
In many cases, once the baby tooth is out, the tongue will naturally push the permanent tooth forward into its proper alignment. However, sometimes orthodontic intervention might be needed later if the permanent tooth doesn't fully align.
Understanding that this is a normal, albeit sometimes unusual-looking, part of dental development can ease concerns for both parents and children.
