As a parent, you’re responsible for your child’s smile, in more ways than one. In addition to ensuring their happiness, you must also protect their oral health and monitor their dental development. As such, it can be concerning to discover that your child has a double row of teeth.
This phenomenon, sometimes known as “shark teeth,” may be alarming at first glance; however, understanding why your child may have a double row of teeth and learning what steps to take can help alleviate your concerns.
Understanding “Shark Teeth”
Sharks have a different dental structure than humans, often having multiple rows of teeth. This is where the name “shark teeth” comes from. In humans, this condition typically occurs when a child’s permanent teeth come in before their baby teeth have fallen out, forming two separate rows of teeth. This condition usually arises when a child is around the age of 6 or 7, but it can occur at different ages, as well.
Why Does It Happen?
The primary reason children sometimes have a double row of teeth is a discrepancy between the timing of development and the space available in the mouth. Normally, as permanent teeth develop, they push against the roots of the baby teeth, eventually causing them to fall out. However, if permanent teeth come in too quickly or the baby teeth are especially stubborn, the new teeth may emerge behind the old ones, resulting in two rows.
Several factors can contribute to this condition, including:
- Crowding: If there’s insufficient space in the mouth, the permanent teeth may not be able to push out the baby teeth properly.
- Timing: Sometimes, permanent teeth start to come in before the baby teeth are ready to fall out.
- Tooth alignment: In certain cases, permanent teeth may grow at a position that doesn’t effectively push the baby teeth out.
Is a Double Row of Teeth a Cause for Concern?
While a double row of teeth might look worrisome, you can take a breath of relief — it’s not usually cause for significant concern. Most of the time, this condition resolves on its own. The baby teeth will eventually loosen and fall out, and the permanent teeth will shift into their proper positions. However, there are situations where intervention may be necessary.
When to See the Dentist
It’s always a good idea to visit your child’s dentist if any unusual changes occur. Specifically, you should consult a dentist if:
- Your child experiences pain or discomfort
- The baby teeth don’t seem to be loosening on their own
- The permanent teeth are coming in misaligned or crooked
What Can a Dentist Do?
During your child’s visit, their dentist will examine their teeth and determine the best course of action. In many cases, the dentist will simply monitor the situation, ensuring the baby teeth eventually fall out and the permanent teeth naturally move into place.
If your child’s baby teeth do not come out on their own, the dentist may recommend extracting them in order to give the permanent teeth the space they need to come in properly. Misalignment or crowding may necessitate a referral to an orthodontist for further evaluation.
Preventive Measures
While there’s not much you can do to prevent your child from developing a double row of teeth, there are steps you can take to support their overall oral health and reduce their risk of complications, including scheduling regular check-ups at the dentist’s office. These appointments aid in early detection and management of issues.
Additionally, it’s important to teach your child good oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing. Ensure they eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of calcium to support their overall dental health. When your child’s teeth and gums are healthy, it will support a smoother transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth.
Comprehensive Pediatric Dental Care in Cottonwood Heights, UT
At Eric Felt DDS, we are committed to helping children develop happy, healthy smiles that will last a lifetime. Whether your child has a double row of teeth or not, our team of dental professionals can provide the expert care they need. If you have any concerns about your child’s dental health, don’t hesitate to contact us.
While you’re at it, why don’t you schedule yourself a check-up and cleaning, as well? At Eric Felt DDS, we are proud to offer comprehensive dental care for the whole family.
