Does Your Child Have a Double Row of “Shark Teeth”? Here’s What You Should Know

Does Your Child Have a Double Row of “Shark Teeth”? Here’s What You Should Know

Many children experience a transitional phase when their baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth. During this time, some may develop what is commonly called “shark teeth,” where a second row of teeth appears. This happens when the baby teeth do not fall out on time and the permanent teeth erupt behind them, creating a double row that may look unusual but is quite common.

This condition usually occurs because the normal process of root resorption does not happen properly. Ideally, permanent teeth grow beneath the baby teeth and dissolve their roots, allowing them to loosen and fall out. However, when this doesn’t occur, the permanent teeth erupt in a different position, typically behind the baby teeth-a condition known as ectopic eruption. It is often seen in children with limited space in their jaws, although other factors may also be involved.

What can you do?
The approach depends on the condition of the baby tooth:

· If the baby tooth is slightly loose, encourage your child to gently wiggle it regularly

· In many cases, the tooth will fall out naturally and the permanent tooth will move into place

· If the baby tooth is firm and not loosening, consult a pediatric dentist

· The dentist may suggest observation or removal of the baby tooth if needed

What happens if left untreated?
If the baby tooth does not fall out in time, it may lead to certain complications, such as:

· Gum attachment occurring lower on the permanent tooth (gingival recession)

· Possible need for future treatment like a gum graft

If extraction is required, it is usually a simple and quick procedure in children because baby teeth have smaller and shorter roots compared to permanent teeth.

Although the appearance of an extra row of teeth can be concerning, it is generally a common and manageable condition. With timely care and guidance, your child’s teeth will usually align properly without major issues.

Your Saraswati Dental College team is here to help!

We are proud to be well-known pediatric dental experts in Saraswati Dental College and Hospital. We are here to help you and your child adjust to their new world of dentist visits in any way that we can. If you think it would be helpful to introduce your child to our team before their appointment, please let us know and we are happy to make that happen. You and your child are in great hands with our trusted team and don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. If you’re ready to schedule your child’s visit, let’s get started!