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The Shark Teeth Phenomenon: What It Is & When to Worry

October 22, 2021

Filed under: Uncategorized — kids-dentistry @ 7:18 pm
Closeup of young kid's mouth with two rows of teeth

As a parent, you can prepare and prepare, but there will always be moments that take you back. From their ability to reach the cookie jar (that you swore you hid so well) to their capacity to bounce back after hurting their knee, there are endless surprises that come with parenthood. However, when you hear about the common phenomenon “shark teeth,” you might really be thrown for a loop. Before you worry, keep reading to learn what it is and when you should contact your child’s dentist.

So, What Are Shark Teeth?

Around the age of six or seven, your child’s baby teeth will begin to wiggle and fall out, making room for their permanent ones to emerge. Typically, it happens in that order. However, every so often, the adult tooth will break through the gumline before the baby tooth has fallen out. This phenomenon is referred to as “shark teeth.”

What Should You Do If Your Child Has Shark Teeth?

If you’ve never heard of or seen shark teeth before, then it’s natural to worry if your kid has two rows of teeth. First, check if the baby tooth (or teeth) in the front is starting to wiggle. If it is, then it may just need a bit more time to fall out. In this case, encourage your child to wiggle it throughout the day (with clean hands!). Second, if the situation doesn’t seem to be bothering your kid, you don’t want to frighten them by panicking. Instead, take a look at their mouth and call their dentist for an appointment.

How Your Dentist Can Help

Since each child’s smile is unique, it’s natural for their teeth to develop at a different pace than their classmates and friends. In times like this, it’s good to have a dental professional in your corner, monitoring their teeth and letting you know what is and isn’t a cause for concern. Most times, shark teeth only warrant treatment if the baby tooth is stubborn, the crowding is developing in their molars, or your child is feeling discomfort.

When it comes to your little one, you want the best for them in every aspect of their life. While it’s natural to worry about shark teeth, it’s important to remember that it’s a common phenomenon among children. If the issue persists, then get in touch with their dentist to schedule an appointment.

About the Author

Dr. Meghan Alexander’s journey to becoming the trusted dentist she is today began at McGill University, where she earned several awards for academic achievement. Since then, she has continued to prioritize continuing education, maintaining an active membership with multiple dental and orthodontic societies. She loves helping patients care for their favorite smiles and is here to help your child enjoy a healthy, happy grin throughout each phase of their life. If your child has shark teeth or you’re simply interested in scheduling an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit her website or give her a call at 860-224-2419.

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