About 10% of children end up with “shark teeth”—a condition that’s much less scary than it sounds! Regular visits to the paediatric dentist can help you pick it up early and manage it appropriately. Contact Brisbane Paediatric Dentist and bring your child in for a checkup!
What are Shark Teeth in Kids?
Shark teeth in kids (also called ectopic eruption) refers to a common dental phenomenon where you see an adult tooth growing behind a baby tooth. When a child’s adult teeth begin to grow in before the baby teeth have fallen out, it results in two rows of teeth, similar to a shark’s.
This usually happens when the adult teeth don’t push the baby teeth out as expected, causing them to grow behind or in front of the existing baby teeth. Shark teeth are most commonly seen in children aged 5 to 7 years and often happen with the lower front teeth. About 10% of kids get it, so it’s nothing to worry about!
While it can be concerning for parents, this condition is usually harmless and resolves itself as the baby teeth eventually fall out naturally. In some cases, a dentist may need to extract the stubborn baby teeth to allow the adult teeth to move into place correctly.
Causes of Shark Teeth
Normal Developmental Variation
Shark teeth in children are often a normal part of development. The baby teeth will typically loosen and fall out naturally once the permanent teeth have fully emerged, although sometimes a dentist may need to assist in the removal of stubborn baby teeth.
Genetics
If a parent or close relative experienced similar issues during childhood, it’s more likely that a child might also develop a double row of teeth. Genetic factors can influence the timing of tooth eruption, the size of the teeth, and the overall spacing in the mouth, all of which can contribute to the presence of shark teeth.
Delayed Loss of Baby Teeth
Delayed loss of baby teeth is a common cause of shark teeth. In some cases, the baby teeth don’t fall out when they should, allowing the permanent teeth to grow in behind them. This delay can be due to a variety of factors, including a lack of space in the mouth or the roots of the baby teeth not dissolving properly.
Space Issues
Space issues within the mouth can lead to shark teeth developing. If a child’s jaw is small or if there isn’t enough room for all the permanent teeth, they may begin to grow in behind the baby teeth, creating a double row. This lack of space can prevent the natural shedding of baby teeth and can sometimes result in crowding of the permanent teeth.
Potential Problems with Shark Teeth
If your child has shark teeth, monitor them closely to make sure they don’t develop any of these issues.
Misalignment
Misalignment can lead to problems with the bite, causing difficulties in chewing and speaking. If left untreated, it may also result in more complex orthodontic issues later in life, like crossbites or overbites. Early dental intervention is recommended to guide proper alignment and avoid potential complications.
Crowding
Crowding happens when there is not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit properly, leading to overlapping or crooked teeth. In children, crowding can become more pronounced as adult teeth start to emerge, especially if the baby teeth haven’t fallen out in time.
This condition can make cleaning teeth difficult, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Over time, untreated crowding can also cause more severe orthodontic problems, which may require braces or other corrective measures.
Other Concerns
Other concerns associated with shark teeth in kids include discomfort and pain as the new teeth push against the baby teeth that haven’t yet fallen out. This can make eating or speaking uncomfortable. Shark teeth might also impact a child’s self-esteem if they feel self-conscious about their appearance.
When to see a Dentist
It’s important to consult a dentist if your child’s baby teeth are not loosening on their own within a few weeks of the permanent teeth emerging. Early intervention is recommended if:
- The baby tooth has not fallen out within two months after the permanent tooth begins to show.
- The shark teeth are causing discomfort or making it difficult for your child to chew or speak.
- There are signs of crowding, with adult teeth coming in at an angle or misaligned due to the presence of baby teeth.
- Your child is anxious or self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth.
Treatment Options
Monitoring and Natural Resolution
In many cases, shark teeth resolve on their own. Monitoring is often recommended, especially if the baby teeth are already slightly loose. Over time, the adult teeth may naturally push the baby teeth out, allowing the new teeth to move into their correct positions. Regular check-ups with a dentist are important to track the progress and make sure no further intervention is needed.
Home Management
Parents can help manage shark teeth at home by encouraging their child to wiggle the loose baby teeth regularly. This can help the teeth fall out naturally and make room for the adult teeth. Offering foods that require more chewing, like apples or carrots, can also assist in loosening the baby teeth. Good oral hygiene is essential during this time to prevent any infections or complications, so brushing twice a day and flossing are important.
Tooth Extraction
If the baby teeth don’t loosen or fall out naturally, a dentist may recommend extraction. This is a common and simple procedure where the stubborn baby teeth are removed to allow the adult teeth to move into place. The procedure is usually done under local anaesthesia to keep the child comfortable. In most cases, recovery is quick, and the child can return to their normal activities within a day or two.
Orthodontic Intervention
In situations where shark teeth cause crowding or alignment issues, orthodontic treatment may be necessary. This could involve the use of braces or other orthodontic devices to guide the adult teeth into their proper positions. Orthodontic intervention is more common if the shark teeth have caused significant misalignment or if there are concerns about the overall structure of0 the child’s teeth and jaw.
FAQs on Shark Teeth in Kids – Causes and Treatment
Is There Anything I Can Do to Prevent Shark Teeth in My Child
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent shark teeth, as they are often a normal part of development. However, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help manage any issues early and prevent complications like crowding or misalignment.
Are Shark Teeth Painful for Kids
Shark teeth can sometimes cause discomfort or mild pain, especially if the adult teeth are pushing against baby teeth. This discomfort is usually temporary, but if it persists, seeing a dentist is recommended.
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