Losing baby teeth is a fun process of growing up, but things do not go as expected in all cases. A common cause of concern for most parents is the occurrence of “shark teeth.” When you observe that your child’s adult teeth have begun to come in behind the baby ones, you probably want to know what to do next. In this case, you should seek help from a professional near you who deals with pediatric dentistry.
What Are Shark Teeth?
Shark teeth occur when the adult tooth grows in before the baby tooth has fallen out. This creates two rows of teeth, similar to a shark’s teeth. It most often occurs with the lower front teeth or the molars.
Shark teeth are quite common and in most cases harmless, but still a cause of concern for most parents. Understanding their causes and knowing when to look for help makes the whole process easier.
Why Do Shark Teeth Happen?
Shark teeth occur because the permanent teeth don’t follow the normal path of development. Instead of pushing directly under the baby tooth to help it loosen and fall out, the adult tooth emerges behind the baby tooth.
This happens due to:
- Delayed Baby Tooth Loss: Sometimes, baby teeth are not ready to fall out when the adult teeth come in.
- Crowded Teeth: If your child’s jaw is small or crowded, the permanent teeth may grow in behind.
If you’re concerned about shark teeth, consult pediatric dentistry in Coquitlam expert. They can assess your child’s oral health and provide the best guidance.
Will Shark Teeth Move Forward?
Parents often wonder if the adult teeth will shift into the correct position on their own. In many cases, once the baby tooth falls out, the adult tooth will naturally move forward into its proper spot. However, this process may take time.
If the baby tooth doesn’t fall out within a few weeks after the adult tooth appears, you should visit your dentist. Early intervention can prevent alignment problems later.
When to Visit a Dentist?
It’s important to know when professional help is necessary. Contact your child’s dentist at a dental clinic in Coquitlam if:
- The baby tooth does not become loose after several weeks.
- Your child feels pain or discomfort.
- The adult tooth does not seem to align correctly.
- The shark teeth cause difficulty chewing or speaking.
How Are Shark Teeth Treated?
Treatment for shark teeth depends on the situation:
- Wait and Watch: If the baby tooth is starting to loosen, your dentist may recommend waiting to see if it falls out naturally.
- Extraction: If the baby tooth doesn’t loosen or falls out on its own, the dentist may remove it to make space for the adult tooth.
- Orthodontic Evaluation: If crowding or alignment issues are present, your dentist might suggest a visit to a professional for further assessment.
Preventing Complications from Shark Teeth
To help your child maintain healthy teeth and avoid oral problems:
- Encourage regular brushing and flossing daily to keep both baby and adult teeth clean.
- Schedule regular dental checkups to monitor your child’s oral health.
- Avoid pulling baby teeth forcefully, as it can cause unnecessary pain or injury.
Consulting a professional in pediatric dentistry near you is crucial for identifying and managing complications from shark teeth, ensuring your child’s smile develops beautifully.
Reassuring Your Child
Shark teeth can make kids feel self-conscious. Reassure your child that this is a normal part of growing up and that their dentist can help make their smile beautiful and healthy.
Key Takeaways
- Shark teeth are common and usually not serious.
- Watch for the baby tooth to loosen and fall out naturally.
- Visit the dentist if the situation doesn’t resolve within a few weeks or causes discomfort.
Understanding shark teeth can ease your worries as a parent. With proper care and attention, your child’s teeth will likely align correctly, helping them achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Consult Your Dentist For Growing Smiles!
Lafarge Dental is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care for families. From routine checkups to specialized treatments, our experienced team of dentist near you ensures a comfortable and professional experience for patients of all ages. We focus on helping you maintain healthy teeth and a confident smile in a friendly and welcoming environment.
Schedule your appointment today and let us help your family achieve healthier, happier smiles!