What Are Shark Teeth?
At Brite Bite, many parents schedule appointments with our pediatric dentists with a concern about “Shark teeth.” This refers to the appearance of a permanent tooth growing in behind a baby tooth that hasn’t fallen out yet. This creates a “double row” of teeth, much like a shark’s mouth — hence the nickname. It is more common on lower teeth and most often occurs around age 5-7 with the eruption of the permanent lower incisors.
Why Do Shark Teeth Happen?
Normally, adult teeth grow up directly underneath baby teeth, causing the roots of the baby teeth to dissolve so they loosen and fall out. But sometimes, the adult tooth comes in slightly behind the baby tooth – missing the root altogether. As a result, the baby tooth stays firm while the adult tooth emerges behind it.
Is It Serious?
Most cases of shark teeth are harmless and temporary. The baby tooth will often loosen on its own within a few weeks as the tongue pushes the adult tooth forward into place.
But in some cases, if the baby tooth doesn’t fall out or the permanent tooth is growing at an odd angle, intervention may be needed to prevent:
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Crowding
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Misalignment
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Bite issues
When to See a Dentist
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The baby tooth is not loose at all
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Your child is experiencing pain or difficulty chewing.
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You notice the permanent tooth coming in at a steep angle
A pediatric dentist can assess whether the baby tooth needs to be extracted or if observation is enough.
Treatment Options
Depending on the situation, the dentist may:
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Recommend monitoring the teeth for natural progression.
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Encourage wiggling the baby tooth to help it come out.
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Perform a simple extraction if the baby tooth is too stubborn. This sounds scarier to parents and children than it really is. More of our patients tolerate the procedure really well and are excited about the tooth fairy.
Once the baby tooth is removed, the permanent tooth typically moves into its correct position without braces.
How to Prevent Future Issues
While shark teeth can’t always be prevented, early dental checkups help spot problems before they worsen. Here are some helpful tips:
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Start dental visits by age 1.
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Maintain a routine of brushing twice daily and flossing.
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Schedule regular cleanings and X-rays to monitor development.
Final Thoughts
Shark teeth may look alarming, but they’re a normal part of growing up for many children. In most cases, they resolve naturally – but when in doubt, check in with your child’s dentist. Timely treatment can help ensure healthy, well-aligned adult teeth.