
Shark Teeth in Kids: Steps to Keep Their Smile on Track
Reviewed by Dr. David Sentelle, DMD, PhD, MPH
The term “shark teeth in kids” sounds scary, right?
Shark teeth in kids, where two rows of teeth appear, is a common occurrence during dental development.
This blog will help you understand why it happens and how to handle it to keep your child’s smile healthy and bright.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Shark teeth in kids is a common and natural part of dental development. Take proactive steps to encourage natural tooth loss, maintain proper oral hygiene, and schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the development of a healthy smile.
Understanding Shark Teeth in Kids
Shark teeth in kids occur when a permanent tooth starts growing behind a baby tooth before the baby tooth has fallen out.
This results in two rows of teeth, just like a shark. It most often appears in children around ages 5-7 but can happen later with primary molars.
The main culprit behind shark teeth is an ectopic eruption, where the incoming adult tooth grows in an abnormal position. Sometimes, the baby tooth root does not dissolve properly, making the baby tooth stubborn and slow to fall out.
Is It a Problem?
In most cases, shark teeth resolve on their own as the primary teeth eventually fall out. However, if the baby tooth remains in place for extended periods of time, it could lead to:
- Crowded teeth: The permanent teeth may shift from their proper positions.
- Misaligned teeth: Improper tooth alignment can occur.
- Tooth decay: Difficulty cleaning between teeth can increase the risk.
Steps to Keep Their Smile on Track
Here are some practical steps you can take to address shark teeth in kids and keep their smile healthy.
Step 1. Encourage Natural Tooth Loss
Gently wiggle the loose baby tooth to encourage it to fall out naturally. Avoid forceful pulling, as it can cause pain or damage the gum tissue.
Read this blog to learn more: When Do Kids Lose Their Teeth? What’s Normal, What’s Not
Step 2. Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
Help your child brush with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth using floss. Regular brushing prevents decay, especially when dealing with double teeth.
To learn more about brushing your child’s teeth, read the blog: U-Shaped Toothbrushes for Kids: Are They Worth the Hype?
If you are not sure which toothpaste is great for your little one, read the blog: Nano-Hydroxyapatite vs. Fluoride: Which Toothpaste Is Better for Your Teeth?
Step 3. Schedule a Routine Check-Up
Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring dental development. Pediatric dentists can assess the dental eruption pattern and ensure teeth are moving into their correct positions.
Step 4. Seek Professional Assessment
If the baby tooth refuses to budge, visit a pediatric dentist. They may recommend tooth extraction to prevent further orthodontic issues.
Step 5. Watch for Orthodontic Concerns
While the vast majority of shark teeth resolve naturally, some cases may require orthodontic treatment to correct crowded or misaligned teeth.
When to Call a Pediatric Dentist
You should seek specialized care if:
- The baby tooth is still firmly in place after weeks of a visible adult tooth.
- Crowded teeth or misalignment becomes noticeable.
- Your child experiences persistent pain or difficulty chewing.
A pediatric dentist is uniquely qualified to treat children. To learn why, read: Why choose a Pediatric Dentist?
Book Your Child’s Dental Visit Today in McKinney, TX
At Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry, we offer compassionate care and personalized treatment for shark teeth in kids.
Our expert team can assess whether your child needs tooth extraction or if the condition will resolve naturally.
If you notice shark teeth in your child, do not wait. Schedule a pediatric dental exam with our pediatric dentists. We are here to ensure your child’s oral health stays on track with high-quality pediatric dentistry.
To book an appointment at our McKinney location, call (214) 436-5555 or visit us at 5323 W University Dr #100, McKinney, Texas.