A tooth appearing behind a baby tooth, often called "shark teeth," usually happens because the baby tooth isn't falling out properly to make way for the permanent tooth.
Here's a breakdown:
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Normal Tooth Eruption: Typically, as a permanent tooth develops, it causes the root of the baby tooth above it to dissolve. This loosening leads to the baby tooth falling out, creating space for the permanent tooth to erupt in its place.
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The "Shark Teeth" Phenomenon: If the root of the baby tooth doesn't dissolve properly, the baby tooth remains firmly in place. This forces the permanent tooth to erupt in the path of least resistance – which is often behind the baby tooth. This results in a row of teeth, similar to a shark's multiple rows.
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Why it Matters: While sometimes this resolves on its own as the baby tooth eventually loosens, it's essential to monitor. If the baby tooth remains stubborn, it can affect the proper alignment of the permanent teeth and potentially lead to orthodontic issues down the line.
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What to Do: Consult with a pediatric dentist. They can assess the situation, determine why the baby tooth isn't loosening, and decide whether extraction is necessary to allow the permanent tooth to erupt into its correct position.
