Your child's tooth is likely growing behind because it's a common occurrence known as "shark teeth," where the permanent tooth erupts before the baby tooth falls out.
Understanding "Shark Teeth"
"Shark teeth" refers to the situation when a permanent adult tooth starts to come in behind a baby tooth that hasn't yet fallen out. This results in a double row of teeth, which can be a source of concern for children and parents alike.
Key Facts about Shark Teeth:
- Timing: This phenomenon typically happens between the ages of 5 and 7 years old.
- Location: It commonly occurs with the lower front teeth, but can affect other areas.
- Natural Process: In most cases, it is a normal part of dental development.
- Temporary: Usually the baby tooth will eventually become loose and fall out as the permanent tooth pushes it.
Why Does it Happen?
Permanent teeth develop beneath the baby teeth. When it's time for the permanent tooth to come through, it should ideally push the baby tooth out, causing it to loosen and fall out naturally. However, sometimes the permanent tooth might start to come in before the baby tooth is ready to come out, resulting in a double row.
What To Do About It?
Here are a few practical things to consider:
- Monitor: Keep an eye on the situation. If the baby tooth is very loose, it may fall out on its own.
- Encourage Wiggling: Encourage your child to gently wiggle the loose tooth. This can speed up the process of it falling out.
- Consult a Dentist: If the baby tooth remains firmly in place after a few weeks or if there is any pain or discomfort, consult your dentist. They may recommend extraction of the baby tooth.
When To See a Dentist?
Here's when it's especially important to seek professional help:
- Persistent Baby Tooth: If the baby tooth doesn't loosen after a few weeks and the permanent tooth is pushing against it.
- Pain or Swelling: If your child experiences pain, swelling or discomfort in the area
- Difficulty Eating or Speaking: If the double row is making it hard to eat or speak.
- Misalignment: If it looks like the new tooth will grow in at a strange angle.
Takeaways
- Shark teeth are a common, and usually temporary, developmental occurence in children between the ages of 5 and 7.
- Most of the time baby teeth will loosen and fall out on their own without intervention.
- It's important to monitor the situation and consult with a dentist if needed to ensure the teeth develop correctly.
