When Do Shark Teeth Typically Appear?
Shark teeth most commonly occur during two main phases of tooth development:
- Around age 6, when the lower front permanent teeth begin to emerge
- Around age 11, when the upper back molars start coming in
However, they can appear at any stage during your child's tooth development.
Are Shark Teeth Normal?
Yes! While seeing two rows of teeth might seem alarming, shark teeth are a relatively common dental occurrence. In most cases, they're not a cause for serious concern, though they should be monitored by a pediatric dentist.
What Causes Shark Teeth?
Several factors can contribute to the development of shark teeth:
- The permanent tooth emerges in a slightly different path than normal
- The baby tooth's roots don't dissolve as quickly as they should
- Crowding in the jaw can affect tooth emergence patterns
- Genetic factors may play a role in how teeth develop and emerge
When Should You Be Concerned?
While shark teeth are usually harmless, certain situations warrant professional attention:
- If the baby tooth is very loose but won't fall out on its own
- When the permanent tooth is more than halfway emerged and the baby tooth hasn't loosened
- If your child experiences pain or discomfort
- When the condition causes difficulty with eating or speaking
What Can Parents Do?
If your child develops shark teeth, here are some steps you can take:
- Encourage Wiggling: If the baby tooth is loose, encourage your child to gently wiggle it. Often, the pressure from the new tooth combined with regular wiggling will help the baby tooth fall out naturally.
- Monitor the Situation: Keep an eye on how the permanent tooth is emerging and whether the baby tooth is becoming looser over time.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Ensure your child continues to brush and floss regularly, paying special attention to both rows of teeth to prevent food and plaque buildup.
Treatment Options
Most cases of shark teeth resolve on their own as the baby tooth eventually falls out. However, if intervention is needed, treatment options may include:
- Professional monitoring during regular check-ups
- Gentle extraction of the baby tooth if necessary
- Evaluation for potential orthodontic needs in the future
How We Can Help
At Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry, our pediatric dentist in Phoenix specializes in monitoring tooth development and ensuring your child's smile develops properly. During your visit, we will:
- Examine the positioning of both baby and permanent teeth
- Take X-rays if needed to assess the situation
- Develop a personalized treatment plan if necessary
- Provide guidance on home care and monitoring
- Address any concerns you or your child may have
Visit Dr. Martinez in Phoenix Today
Don't let concerns about shark teeth keep you up at night. Dr. Martinez at Big Apple Pediatric Dentistry is here to guide you through every stage of your child's dental development. Contact our Phoenix office at (602) 935-7427 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve families throughout Phoenix, Chandler, Ahwatukee, South Phoenix, Laveen, and Tempe with comprehensive, gentle pediatric dental care that puts your child's comfort first.