Picture this: You are brushing your child’s teeth when you notice a tiny, white bump behind a tooth. At closer inspection, you realize that it’s actually a new tooth emerging. Naturally, you become concerned and pick up the phone to schedule an appointment with your child’s dentist to find out what the problem is.
Let’s make one thing clear from the start. What you see is something we like to call “shark teeth.” We call them like that because sharks have anywhere between 5 and 15 rows of teeth on each jaw.
While they might look alarming, shark teeth are nothing to worry about.
What Are Shark Teeth and Should I Be Worried?
Baby teeth start falling between the ages of 5 and 7. Usually, the adult teeth dissolve the root of the baby teeth. These teeth fall out and the permanent ones now have room to erupt properly.
However, things don’t always happen as they should. There are some instances when the adult teeth start erupting before the baby teeth get the chance to fall out.
Should that be a cause for concern? Well, it depends.
If your child is between 5 and 7 years old, (or about 12 years old because that’s when the second set of molars erupts), then it’s probably fine. You should also check to see if the baby tooth is wiggling or if your child seems to be in any discomfort. If they are fine, then there’s probably no reason to be concerned.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If you are worried about your child’s oral health, then the best thing you can do is schedule an appointment with their dentist. Maybe your worries aren’t well-founded, but it’s best to hear this from a doctor’s mouth.
As far as shark teeth go, you should pay attention to the following signs
- The Baby Tooth Is Not Moving at All
If more than two months have passed since the adult tooth started emerging and the baby one doesn’t show any signs of movement, then it may be time to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
- The Placement of the Adult Teeth
If the adult tooth is erupting behind the baby one, then that may cause teeth alignment issues in the future. It’s best to see an orthodontist and discuss the possibility of orthodontic treatment.
- Your Child Is in Discomfort
Generally, falling baby teeth don’t cause too much discomfort except for the weird sensation of the tooth wiggling. But if your child is experiencing pain and swelling, then it’s best to have a dentist check both the baby and adult teeth and establish the best course of action.
Worried About Shark Teeth? We Can Help
We know it may be a bit concerning to see a new set of teeth emerging next to your child’s baby teeth. Whatever questions you may have, the team at Miles of Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in White Plains is ready and happy to answer them.
Contact us now to book your appointment with one of our dentists.