Introduction
If you’re a parent is it a source of anxiety to observe the child’s permanent teeth becoming larger than the baby teeth and forming an “double row” of teeth. This problem, also known in the field of shark teeth for children is a result of adult teeth begin to grow prior to the baby teeth falling out.
In the majority of cases, it isn’t a major issue however, prompt intervention might be necessary in certain situations. In this post we’ll go over the reasons why shark teeth are present and when it’s time to act as well as how to make sure you have the proper development of your teeth.
What Are Shark Teeth in Kids?
The phrase “shark teeth” is derived due to”shark tooth” meaning the two rows of teeth which resembles sharks’ many tooth sets. The reason for this is that teeth that are permanent teeth appear in the back of baby teeth instead of directly under the baby teeth. Because they are baby teeth aren’t able to emerge on the exact occasion they create the temporary cross-over between the two sets.
Shark teeth can be observed in the following areas: Lower front teeth (bottom teeth, incisors) Between 6-7 years old. The upper front teeth (top incisors) Between 7-8 years old.
Though this problem usually will resolve on its own however, there are instances when intervention is necessary to stop alignment issues.
Why Do Shark Teeth in Kids Happen?
There are many possible reasons permanent teeth may be in place before the babies’ teeth are removed:
1. Delayed Baby Tooth Loss
Most often, the reason is the reason that the infant tooth’s roots don’t break down quickly enough and prevents it from loosening up and falling out. In the meantime, the permanent tooth follows an alternative route and grows in the place of the baby tooth.
2. Lack of Space in the Jaw
If there’s not enough room in the mouth If there isn’t enough room in the mouth, adult teeth could have a difficult time pushing the baby teeth away and cause the teeth being pushed out of alignment and a crowded mouth..
3. Genetics
Certain children are born with a pattern of teeth loss that is delayed or the eruption of teeth in their early teens by their parents. In the event that tooth sharks were present within your family then your child could be affected by similar.
4. Early Permanent Tooth Eruption
In some cases, adult teeth develop earlier than was expected particularly if the child is on the right track in their developmental timeline for dental growth.
Is Shark Teeth in Kids a Problem?
Most times, shark teeth are permanent and heal by themselves. But, they can pose an issue if the baby tooth doesn’t get loose after some time. The permanent tooth continues to grow in the back, which causes misalignments. impacts the upper teeth and can cause an anterior crossbite
If any of the above occurs, dental intervention could be required in order to eliminate the tooth that was born and permit for the tooth that is permanent to move to its proper place.
When to See a Dentist About Shark Teeth?
Parents often wonder how to proceed when their child is developing shark tooth. The following is an easy guideline to follow:
Monitor the Teeth for 1-2 Months
If your teeth of your baby are beginning to loosen The issue might end by itself. Your child should be encouraged to move the tooth in order to accelerate the process.
See a Dentist If:
The baby tooth doesn’t seem to be loosening over the course of 2 months. Permanent teeth are growing in the back, leading to misalignment. The child may be experiencing discomfort or pain. The problem occurs within the upper teeth creating a greater risk for a anterior crossbite
If this is the case the dentist might recommend removing the tooth that was born in order to permit an adult tooth shift to the right position.
What Happens If Shark Teeth Are Left Untreated?
If the baby teeth can’t come out by themselves they could cause misaligned adult teeth. If the adult tooth is further back than it should the orthodontic treatment could require treatment later on. Issues with teeth (crossbite or overcrowding) could affect how lower and upper teeth sit to each other. More likely to develop cavities. The double rows of teeth may create a more challenging cleaning process, leading to the build-up of plaque.
The early intervention process can assist in avoiding these problems as well as ensure your child’s dental health is properly developed.
Treatment Options for Shark Teeth in Kids
When your kid’s teeth aren’t resolving on their own the dentist might suggest any of these treatments:
1. Tooth Extraction
In the event that the child tooth does not appear to be loose and isn’t loose, an easy extraction could be carried out in a dental facility. It’s an simple and non-invasive procedure which allows adults’ teeth to move to the left naturally.
2. Orthodontic Treatment
If you’re experiencing significant disalignment If there’s a significant misalignment, an orthodontic consult might be required. Braces and retainers are able to assist in guiding the permanent teeth to the correct alignment.
3. Space Maintainers
If the issue of crowding has become a problem then it is recommended to use a space preserver could be employed to stop overlapping and to ensure an even alignment of the teeth.
How to Prevent Shark Teeth in Kids?
Although shark teeth aren’t able to be avoided There are actions parents could adopt to help ensure healthy development of their teeth:
Make sure you maintain a healthy oral health – brushing and flossing maintain healthy teeth and strengthen them. Watch for baby tooth loss If the baby tooth isn’t slipping out on schedule, see an experienced dentist. Avoid hard food items – Hard foods such as ice, or hard candy may affect the health of baby teeth. Plan regular dental visits to catch issues early and prevent problems with alignment.
FAQs About Shark Teeth in Kids
1. Do Shark Teeth in Kids Hurt?
A majority of kids do not feel any discomfort however some children may feel a slight discomfort, especially if the baby tooth remains fixed in its place.
2. Should I Pull My Child’s Loose Baby Tooth?
If the tooth is already uncooperative and swollen, help your kid to gentlely move the tooth with your tongue. Be careful, however. don’t force your child’s tooth to remove it in order to cause bleeding or pain.
3. What If the Adult Tooth Doesn’t Move Forward After Extraction?
At times it is the case that an adult tooth requires additional time to grow to the left. If the tooth is not in the correct position, orthodontic treatment may be suggested.
4. Are Shark Teeth Common?
Yes! Shark teeth for children are quite common particularly in kids between six and eight years old..
Final Thoughts: Is Shark Teeth in Kids a Concern?
The majority of times, shark teeth in youngsters aren’t harmful and will heal in a natural way. But, monitoring the situation is essential in avoid long-term issues with dental. If baby teeth aren’t falling out, or the permanent tooth is advancing in a way that is too long an dentist will be able to advise on an appropriate method of treatment.
Good news? early intervention can ensure an ideal, straight smile of your little one!
