Reviewed by Dr Kathryn Stanley
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Reading Time: Five Minutes
Shark teeth in kids may sound like something out of a marine biology book, but they are actually quite common and usually not a cause for concern.
If you notice a second row of teeth or adult teeth growing in behind your child’s baby teeth, don’t panic. This is actually quite common. Many children experience this situation, and most of the time it does not signal a serious problem.
Let’s take a closer look at what causes shark teeth, when to see a pediatric dentist, and how to protect your child’s oral health.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Shark teeth in kids may look alarming, but they are typically easy to manage with help from your pediatric dentist. Early evaluation can prevent complications like crowded teeth or misalignment and support healthy oral development.
What Are Shark Teeth?
“Shark tooth” is a nickname for when adult teeth (also called permanent teeth) begin growing in behind baby teeth before the primary teeth have fallen out. This can result in two rows of teeth, much like a shark.
It most often happens in the lower front teeth (the incisors), but it can also occur behind the upper back molars or in other areas of the mouth.
The clinical term for this condition is ectopic eruption, which means the tooth is erupting in an unusual location.
What Causes Shark Teeth in Kids?
The most common cause of shark teeth is a delay in the natural loss of a baby tooth. Normally, as permanent teeth develop, they push against the roots of baby teeth, causing those roots to dissolve. This allows the baby teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.
In some cases, however, the adult teeth miss the root entirely and erupt behind the baby tooth. This can happen when:
- The baby tooth root does not dissolve properly
- The baby tooth is particularly stubborn and does not loosen
- There is crowding or lack of space in the mouth
- The eruption pattern of adult teeth varies from normal
Can Shark Teeth Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, you cannot prevent shark teeth. They often result from normal variation in timing and anatomy. However, regular dental check-ups allow your pediatric dentist to monitor oral development and identify any ectopic eruptions early.
When to See a Pediatric Dentist
If your child has a loose baby tooth and a permanent tooth growing behind it, give it a few weeks to fall out naturally. Gentle wiggling at home often helps. But if the baby tooth does not loosen, or if your child experiences discomfort, it is time to schedule a dental appointment.
A pediatric dentist will assess whether the baby tooth needs help coming out or if it is best to monitor the situation. In some cases, a quick and simple tooth extraction may be recommended to make room for the adult teeth and prevent crowded teeth or misalignment.
Why Prompt Treatment Matters
Left unchecked, shark teeth can lead to potential issues like:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Bite problems
- Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene
- Increased risk of tooth decay
Addressing the situation early helps ensure the permanent tooth shifts into its proper position and supports healthy oral development.
What to Expect at the Dentist
At Stanley Pediatric Dentistry, we make dental visits comfortable and stress-free for kids. During your child’s dental visit, we will:
- Examine the teeth visually and with X-rays if needed
- Determine whether to wait, encourage more wiggling, or perform a gentle tooth extraction
- Provide guidance on how to care for the area after the baby tooth comes out
We also monitor the alignment of permanent teeth and discuss future orthodontic treatment if needed.
When Shark Teeth Require Orthodontic Treatment
In many cases, once the baby tooth is out, the adult tooth will gradually move into its proper position. But if the new tooth remains out of line or causes crowding, your dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment down the road.
Early evaluation helps ensure the best outcome for your child’s smile.
How to Care for Shark Teeth at Home
While you cannot stop shark teeth from forming, you can help your child manage them in a healthy and comfortable way. These simple tips support proper eruption and help prevent complications.
- Encourage your child to wiggle a loose baby tooth every day
- Avoid overly hard or crunchy foods that could cause discomfort
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
- Limit sugary foods that can increase the risk of tooth decay
- Schedule regular dental appointments to keep an eye on tooth alignment and eruption
Book a Dental Exam & Cleaning in Overland Park, KS
Shark teeth in kids are common and treatable, especially with the help of a trusted pediatric dentist. If you have noticed a second row of teeth or a stubborn baby tooth that will not budge, Stanley Pediatric Dentistry in Overland Park is here to help.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Overland Park, KS, call (913) 345-0331 or visit us at 8575 W 110th St Suite 310, Overland Park, KS.
